SCDOT Adds 20 Bridges to Repair Priority List; Hwy 501 Bypass Takes The Lead

SCDOT Adds 20 Bridges to Repair Priority List; Hwy 501 Bypass Takes The Lead

In a recent development, the South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT) has expanded its bridge repair strategy by adding 20 bridges to its priority list within the month of July. Topping this list is the Highway 501 Bypass bridge that towers over the Waccamaw River.

Details on Funding and Safety Concerns

As per the information divulged by the SCDOT, the Highway 501 Bypass is the first bridge in the queue for repair funding, from the budget of $200 million that state legislators allocated for bridge projects. Despite the bridge featuring some cracks and being visually unappealing, officials have clarified that it remains structurally sound and safe.

The initiative for repair came after emphasizing safety concerns and acknowledging the requirement of another crossing into Conway. The current bridges are reported to have a lifespan of 15 to 20 years still left, as per structural engineers with SCDOT.

A New Crossing Necessitated by Growth

Growth and development in the region necessitate another road into Conway as an alternative evacuation route should a hurricane strike. In view of this, a proposed new crossing forms a part of the Ride IV sales tax proposal, which is on voters’ ballots this coming November. Upon passage, the planning phase for this new crossing will commence immediately.

However, the full completion of this new bridge could take an estimated duration of between 15 to 18 years. The enormity of the project entails careful planning and preparation for successful execution. Conway City Councilman William Goldfinch noted that unless one is involved in such projects, they might not fully grasp the extensive work that planning for such a project entails.

2024 Bridge Improvement Program

In addition to the Highway 501 Bypass, DOT commissioners have approved a request to include other bridges in the 2024 bridge improvement program. This list includes bridges along US 52 in Florence, Highway 83 in Marlboro, and US 15 in Darlington County. Residents can view the map of bridge projects in South Carolina for detailed information.

In conclusion, SCDOT’s prioritization of bridge repairs and expansion of their priority list is an active response to safety issues and infrastructural growth. The prioritized repair and proposed construction of a new crossing represent a necessary step in the region’s ongoing development and safety management.