News Summary
The South Carolina Department of Transportation has announced an $825 million project to improve a crucial 10-mile stretch of Interstate 95 near the Georgia border. Awarded to Texas-based Webber, this significant upgrade includes 14 new bridges and interchange redesigns to address traffic bottlenecks. The project is set to begin with a groundbreaking ceremony this summer and aims for completion by 2030, with funding from federal, state, and Georgia sources. Local residents anticipate the improvements will alleviate historical congestion issues.
Hardeeville, South Carolina – The South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT) has announced a significant $825 million project to improve a critical stretch of Interstate 95 (I-95) near the Georgia border. The construction will enhance a 10-mile section of the highway, which is known to be one of the busiest roads on the East Coast and a notorious traffic bottleneck between New York and Miami.
SCDOT has awarded the project to Webber, a Texas-based contractor that is part of the Spanish multinational Ferrovial. This contract marks the largest ever awarded by the SCDOT and signals a major investment in the state’s infrastructure.
The improvements will include the construction of 14 new bridges, as well as upgrades to interchanges at exits 5 and 8, which currently exhibit design flaws that compromise their operational efficiency. The construction aims to accommodate the increasing traffic demands of South Carolina’s fastest-growing areas, particularly as communities such as Hardeeville are experiencing rapid expansion.
A groundbreaking ceremony is anticipated for this summer, with the completion of the project expected by 2030. Funding for this extensive project will be sourced from a combination of federal and state funds, along with financial contributions from the Georgia Department of Transportation.
Addressing Local Concerns
The announcement of this project comes as local residents have expressed frustration over previous delays. The enhancements to I-95 are expected to alleviate some of this discontent, given the road’s historical congestion issues at the Georgia border.
Specific Details of the Project
This construction project will stretch from the Savannah River, where a new bridge is planned, to just north of U.S. 278. By expanding and enhancing this highway section, officials aim to make significant improvements to traffic flow, helping to ease the congestion that has frequently slowed travel in the area.
Community Growth and Development
According to recent census data, Hardeeville has seen the sharpest population growth of any municipality in South Carolina last year. Alongside this infrastructure development, a Buc-ee’s travel center is set to open along Exit 8 in 2028, marking a significant addition to the local economy and amenities.
Related Developments
In addition to the I-95 improvements, a related segment involving a 13-mile section in Jasper County is currently in the design phase and is expected to proceed by spring.
The Importance of I-95
I-95 runs a total of 1,924 miles from Miami to Houlton, Maine, traversing through 15 states. This major East Coast corridor is vital for commerce and travel and has been the subject of an ongoing initiative for broader upgrades along its entire span.
This project not only signifies a step forward in addressing long-standing traffic issues but also reflects a commitment to enhancing the infrastructure supporting South Carolina’s rapid growth and development.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Hardeeville Becomes South Carolina’s Fastest Growing City
Additional Resources
- Live 5 News
- Wikipedia: Interstate 95
- ABC11 News
- Google Search: South Carolina weather
- WACH News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Weather
- Count on 2 News
- Google News: South Carolina flooding
