News Summary
The South Carolina Department of Transportation has launched a major project to widen I-95 from the Savannah River to US 278, addressing long-standing traffic congestion. This $825 million investment aims to improve travel conditions and support economic growth in the region. Construction starts later this summer and is projected to conclude around 2030, including significant bridge enhancements and phased construction to minimize disruptions.
Hardeeville, South Carolina – Major I-95 Widening Project Underway to Combat Traffic Congestion
The South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT) has officially announced the commencement of the Interstate 95 widening and improvements project, a significant venture aimed at alleviating persistent traffic congestion along a crucial corridor. This project, which spans from the Savannah River to US 278, will cover a distance of 10 miles and is anticipated to cost a total of $825 million. Construction is expected to begin later this summer, with an estimated completion date around 2030.
Project Overview
The widening and improvements to I-95 are being undertaken in collaboration with the Georgia Department of Transportation. One key feature of this project includes the construction of a new bridge over the Savannah River, which is essential for modernizing and enhancing the interchanges and bridges along this stretch of the interstate. The main objective of the project is to accommodate ongoing growth in traffic and to decrease delays, thereby ensuring smoother and safer travel for both people and goods utilizing the I-95 corridor.
Addressing Long-Standing Issues
Officials have indicated that this expansion is approximately 30 years overdue. Northbound Interstate 95 has been known for its bottlenecks and congestion, especially as it narrows approaching the South Carolina state line despite having three lanes in Georgia. SCDOT Commission Chairman TJ Johnson expressed that the project is pivotal for the interstate system and addresses a long-standing issue that affects commute times and economic activity in the region. The choke point at the Georgia border has been a contributing factor to traffic challenges between New York and Miami.
Funding and Community Involvement
The total estimated cost for construction is projected at $728.8 million, with funding sources coming from SCDOT’s Federal Interstate funds, State Rural Interstate funds, and contributions from the Georgia Department of Transportation. Since the project’s inception, the SCDOT has engaged with the public, conducting meetings starting in 2022 to gather input. A significant public meeting held in September 2022 drew hundreds of attendees, showcasing community interest and support for the project.
Local Impact and Future Development
The improvements to I-95 are not just about alleviating traffic; they are also expected to have profound economic benefits. Hardeeville Mayor Harry Williams highlighted that the enhancements would improve access to jobs and attract investors. As part of the project, Hardeeville plans to add a Buc-ee’s location, which is projected to create jobs and boost local revenue through increased tourism, coinciding with the I-95 improvements.
Phased Construction Approach
The I-95 widening project will be executed in phases. The first segment of construction is expected to last approximately four years and will involve widening a 13-mile stretch from two lanes to three, along with improvements to 11 bridges and overpasses. Meanwhile, the second segment of this broader project is currently in the design phase, slated for completion by spring 2026. Construction for this segment is anticipated to start in fall 2027 and will also take four years to complete, ensuring a streamlined process for upgrading the interstate.
Temporary Disruptions Ahead
As with any large-scale construction project, temporary traffic disruptions will occur. However, officials remain optimistic that the long-term benefits—be it reduced congestion or economic growth—will far outweigh these short-term inconveniences.
In summary, the I-95 widening and improvements project represents a significant investment in South Carolina’s infrastructure, aiming to modernize a vital interstate corridor and significantly improve travel conditions for commuters, visitors, and freight logistics well into the next decade.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Additional Resources
- Bluffton Today: SCDOT Awards $825 Million for I-95 Widening Project
- Roads & Bridges: I-95 Expansion in South Carolina Moves Forward
- Explore Beaufort SC: Interstate 95 Widening Project to Begin This Summer
- The State: Politics & Government News on I-95 Widening
- Post and Courier: I-95 Expansion in Jasper County
- Wikipedia: Interstate 95
- Google Search: I-95 Widening South Carolina
- Google Scholar: I-95 Widening Impact
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Interstate Traffic Congestion
- Google News: I-95 Widening South Carolina
