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Greenville Receives $24 Million for Infrastructure Improvements

Cityscape of Greenville highlighting infrastructure improvements

News Summary

Greenville is set to benefit from a $24 million allocation from South Carolina for key infrastructure and public safety projects. This funding will enhance local thoroughfares, pedestrian safety measures, and urban beautification efforts, ultimately transforming the city’s infrastructure landscape over the next two fiscal years. Key projects include upgrades to Wade Hampton Boulevard, a new cultural corridor, and a parking deck, all aimed at increasing safety and connectivity for residents and visitors alike.

Greenville’s Exciting $24 Million Windfall for Infrastructure!

Greenville is buzzing with excitement over a generous allocation of approximately $24 million from the state of South Carolina, earmarked for a range of infrastructure and public safety initiatives. This funding, which spans the fiscal years 2023-24 and 2024-25, is set to transform the city in remarkable ways!

A Closer Look at What’s Coming Up

The Greenville City Council received a thrilling update on these state-funded projects during their meeting on February 24. So, what can residents look forward to? Let’s dive into it!

Wade Hampton Boulevard Upgrade: Big plans are in store for Wade Hampton Boulevard, with work set to kick off this summer. The project will include the realignment of White Oak Road and Bradley Boulevard, aiming to slow down speedy drivers and deter cut-through traffic. This impressive transformation will come with a price tag of $2.3 million.
Future Phases: Phase 2 designs for this thoroughfare are already 30% complete, and construction is anticipated to start in 2026. Work is moving fast!
Cultural Corridor & Academy Bypass: Downtown Greenville is also getting a makeover! With a budget of $6 million, these projects promise to spruce up the area and are predicted to be completed by May. Expect direct access from Main Street to Heritage Green and improved public spaces for everyone to enjoy.
Pedestrian Safety Plan: Phase 1 of the Pedestrian Safety Action Plan has been wrapped up, focusing on school zones and key corridors like Laurens Road and Pleasantburg Drive. This includes shiny new ADA ramps and high-visibility crosswalks. Phase 2 is just around the corner, starting in March and targeting Academy Street, Pete Hollis Boulevard, and several other roadways.

Paving the Way for Safety

With an eye on safety, the enhancements on East North Street will focus on pedestrian safety and smooth traffic flow near the Bon Secours Wellness Arena. This project, valued at $2.87 million, is expected to be finished by December — that’s just in time for holiday festivities!

Pendleton Street is also in for a makeover, featuring a new “road diet” between South Main and Academy streets. This initiative will add protected bike lanes and well-marked crosswalks, promoting safer travels for all.

Bridges and Beyond

In a nod to the region’s history, the Queen Street bridge, originally built in 1927 and owned by Norfolk Southern, is set to be replaced, with conceptual design plans nearly completed. Besides that, an underground utility project along Augusta Street is on the board, costing $5.5 million and expected to kick off this summer.

Improvements That Shine Bright

In addition, improvements on Stone Avenue will see a new pedestrian hybrid beacon signal and upgraded lighting along the corridor, thanks to gasoline tax funds. Residents can also look forward to a shiny new pedestrian bridge over Verdae Boulevard that will connect to a trail extension near the Clemson University International Center for Automotive Research. Construction for this endeavor is expected to start in the spring or early summer.

Exciting Events Ahead

And that’s not all! Mark your calendars for the grand opening of the Greenville Cancer Survivors Park, scheduled for June 1. There will be a ribbon-cutting ceremony featuring community leaders, celebrating this important addition to the city.

To top it all off, an ambitious $48.5 million “Build Project” will focus on enhancing safety, accessibility, and connectivity in downtown, affecting the intersection of East Fifth Street and Cotanche Street. However, be prepared for some closures, anticipated to last about 5-6 months.

Finally, a new 400-space parking deck is getting ready to take shape in the University Ridge redevelopment, in partnership with RocaPoint Partners, with plans to open in 2026. Exciting times ahead for Greenville as these projects roll out, bringing safety and accessibility to new heights!