News Summary
Charleston County has awarded a $3 million contract for the Woodland Shores Road Complete Streets and Maybank Highway Midblock Crossing Project. This project aims to enhance safety for pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers by adding sidewalks, improving drainage systems, and implementing a new mid-block crossing. Funded through federal and state contributions, construction is set to begin in the next six to eight weeks, with a focus on improving road infrastructure and community engagement.
Charleston County Greenlights $3 Million Safety Enhancement Project
In a significant move towards improving road safety and connectivity, Charleston County Council has awarded a contract worth over $3 million to Gulf Stream Construction Company, Inc. for the Woodland Shores Road Complete Streets and Maybank Highway Midblock Crossing Project. This project aims to enhance the safety infrastructure for pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers in the region, making travel safer for everyone.
Transforming the Streets for Better Mobility
The ambitious undertaking will involve the addition of approximately 5,500 linear feet of new sidewalks along Woodland Shores Road and Maybank Highway. These newly constructed sidewalks will provide safer passageways for pedestrians and cyclists, promoting an active lifestyle while maintaining safety on the busy streets.
In tandem with sidewalk improvements, the project will also see the installation of about 5,000 linear feet of enhanced stormwater drainage pipes. This vital infrastructure upgrade is set to address persistent flooding issues, ensuring that rainwater is effectively diverted away from critical roadways and pedestrian paths. Such advancements are instrumental in preventing hazardous conditions that can arise from heavy rainfall.
A Focused Approach to Safety
One of the key features of the Woodland Shores Road project is the introduction of a new mid-block crossing on Maybank Highway, a crucial step in enhancing pedestrian safety. This crossing will boast high-visibility flashing Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacons, alerting motorists of pedestrians needing to cross. Additionally, a center island refuge will be constructed, providing a safe stopping point for pedestrians, allowing them to navigate the busy highway with greater ease.
To further bolster safety efforts, a raised landscaped median with fencing will be implemented. This will effectively deter unsafe crossing behaviors and provide a visual barrier between opposing traffic flows, thereby reducing the chances of accidents.
Funding the Safety Revolution
The financial backing for the project comes from multiple sources including $2.9 million in federal funding acquired through a CHATS grant, $731,000 in state gas tax funds from the Charleston Transportation Committee, and $18,611.68 from the Transportation Sales Tax Annual Allocation Program. This collaborative funding approach not only underscores the importance of the project but also reflects a unified commitment to improving transportation safety within the community.
Community Engagement and Construction Timeline
This project represents a significant leap forward in addressing the long-standing safety concerns in the region, showcasing the county’s dedication to fostering a safer environment. As the construction timeline approaches and plans unfold, the new Woodland Shores Road and Maybank Highway enhancements are set to change the landscape of local travel for the better.
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Additional Resources
- Charleston Business: Military Shipbuilder Acquisition
- Wikipedia: Charleston County, South Carolina
- Post and Courier: Palmetto Commerce Interchange Update
- Google Search: Charleston County Improvements
- Count on 2: Charleston County Educational Budget
- Google Scholar: Charleston County Education
- Charleston Business: Palmetto Commerce Interchange Update
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Charleston, South Carolina
Author: STAFF HERE CHARLESTON
The CHARLESTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREcharleston.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Charleston, Charleston County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Spoleto Festival USA, Charleston Wine + Food Festival, and the MOJA Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce and the Charleston Museum, plus leading businesses in tourism and maritime industries that power the local economy such as South Carolina Ports Authority and the Charleston Visitor Center. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREaiken.com, HEREbeaufort.com, HEREchapin.com, HEREcharleston.com, HEREclinton.com, HEREcolumbia.com, HEREgeorgetown.com, HEREgreenwood.com, HEREgreenville.com, HEREhiltonhead.com, HEREirmo.com, HEREmyrtlebeach.com, HEREnewberry.com, HERErockhill.com, HEREspartanburg.com, HEREaustin.com, HEREcollegestation.com, HEREdallas.com, HEREhouston.com, and HEREsanantonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
