The South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT) has reported significant progress in its ongoing efforts to improve the state’s transportation infrastructure. Since the adoption of a 10-year plan in 2017, SCDOT has focused on recovering the state highway system through various projects. These include over 1,200 miles of rural road safety projects, which have resulted in a 20% reduction in fatalities and serious injury crashes on completed roads. Nearly one-quarter of the state’s 41,000-mile highway system is currently under contract for paving, aiming to increase the percentage of roads classified as being in good condition.
Additionally, more than 450 bridges are undergoing repairs or replacements, with project delivery speeds tripling since the plan’s inception. Significant improvements have also been made at major interstate interchanges such as I-26 and I-20, and I-26 and I-95, with widening projects underway across nearly every interstate corridor.
In response to rapid population growth and increasing congestion, SCDOT is looking towards future priorities that include improving statewide transportation planning and diversifying revenue sources. The agency faces challenges such as reduced buying power due to inflation; for instance, a cent from the gas tax now covers fewer miles of resurfacing compared to 2017.
Secretary of Transportation Justin Powell highlighted these issues during public hearings held by the South Carolina House of Representatives SCDOT modernization committee. He noted that despite these challenges, SCDOT remains committed to enhancing performance and project delivery. Powell said, “I appreciate the Governor’s consideration of this request and the inclusion of an additional $1.1 billion for transformative infrastructure in his proposed budget.”
Looking ahead, SCDOT has submitted an amended budget request to Governor Henry McMaster to maintain momentum from past initiatives like the 2017 roads bill. This request aims to ensure continued progress on road and bridge projects slated for 2026 and 2027.
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