$6.2 Million Set To Replace Greenville Bridge, Public Meeting Planned

In a move set to significantly impact local commuters, the South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT) is planning to initiate a multi-million-dollar project to replace a key two-lane bridge in Greenville, South Carolina. The project, costing an estimated $6.2 million, will replace the West Faris Road bridge that lies over Brushy Creek.

Public Engagement and Community Involvement

To facilitate public engagement and gather useful feedback, the SCDOT will coordinate a public input meeting scheduled for July 30. The department aims to involve community members and acquire their insights and suggestions before diving into the planning process for the project. This meeting is set to hold from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the St. George Greek Orthodox Church located at 400 N. Academy St.

Bridge Construction Timeline and Scope

Barring unforeseen circumstances, the construction process for the bridge is expected to take around 18 months, with commencement set for early 2026. The new bridge will be constructed near the existing alignment, allowing for continuous traffic flow during the construction period.

The West Faris Road bridge replacement is part of the SCDOT’s broader strategic initiative spanning a ten-year period aiming to resolve the issue of approximately 500 closed and load-restricted bridges throughout the state. These load-restricted bridges are capable of holding vehicles only up to a certain weight, posing potential traffic challenges and hazards.

Aging Infrastructure and Increasing Traffic Concerns

Constructed back in 1969, the existing bridge on West Faris Road is a significant artery for the city’s traffic flow, serving approximately 14,000 drivers daily. With the growing number of local commuters and deteriorating condition of the bridge, the need for a new structure has become more apparent and urgent.

To ensure the people’s voices are heard and their concerns pertaining to the project are addressed, SCDOT has established a detailed comment period from July 15 to August 15. Community participants can thereby put forth their concerns and inquiries about the project, playing a crucial role in shaping infrastructure decisions affecting their city’s future.

The Importance of the Project

The current state of the bridge poses potential safety hazards and traffic restrictions for daily commuters. The replacement project is thus a much-needed move towards ensuring not only enhanced infrastructure but also the safety and efficiency of transport routes in the locale. With the collaborative efforts of the SCDOT and the local community, Greenville can look forward to a safer, smoother, and more efficient future in transportation.