North Charleston, October 18, 2025
News Summary
The South Carolina Department of Transportation has announced a closure of the westbound lanes of Interstate 26 in North Charleston to repair the Eagle Drive overpass. This closure, starting at 10 p.m. on October 18 and expected to last until the morning of October 19, is essential after the overpass was damaged by an over-height truck. Motorists are advised to use alternate routes, particularly Rivers Avenue, to minimize disruptions.
North Charleston – The South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT) will close the westbound lanes of Interstate 26 in North Charleston starting at 10 p.m. on Saturday, October 18. This closure is necessary to repair the Eagle Drive overpass, which sustained damage earlier this month when it was struck by an over-height truck carrying an excavator. The repair work is expected to continue until the morning of October 19.
During the closure, all westbound traffic between Interstate 526 and Ashley Phosphate Road will be detoured onto Rivers Avenue (U.S. 52). SCDOT is advising drivers to avoid the area Saturday night and to consider using alternative routes to minimize disruptions to their travel plans. Digital message boards and detour signs will be placed throughout the area to guide motorists around the closure and ensure they can navigate safely and efficiently.
The Eagle Drive overpass was struck by a commercial vehicle on October 2. Fortunately, there were no injuries reported during this incident. However, it did result in lane closures that caused significant traffic backups during the morning commute in the days following the accident. The repairs scheduled for October 18-19 aim to restore safety and normal traffic flow on this vital stretch of highway.
Impact on Traffic
All motorists traveling westbound on I-26 during the closure will need to reroute their journeys. SCDOT strongly urges drivers to follow the posted detours and to allow extra travel time to reach their destinations, particularly during peak travel hours. The detour onto Rivers Avenue, which serves as an alternative route, may experience increased traffic as a result of the closure.
Future Considerations
The SCDOT emphasizes the importance of maintaining the integrity of infrastructure to ensure public safety. This repair work is part of a larger initiative to address damages caused by commercial vehicles and maintain quality transport throughout the region.
Background Information
Bridge strikes by over-height trucks are not uncommon and can lead to significant structural damages and traffic interruptions. Roadway maintenance and repair are crucial for safety and efficiency, with state departments actively monitoring and managing such incidents as they arise. Residents and travelers are encouraged to stay informed about road conditions and closures through official channels and traffic updates.
Contact Information
For more information regarding the I-26 closure, drivers can check the SCDOT website or local traffic advisories. Staying updated through official communication channels helps ensure safe travel.
FAQ
What is the purpose of the I-26 westbound closure?
The closure is necessary to repair the Eagle Drive overpass, which was damaged earlier this month when it was struck by an over-height truck carrying an excavator.
When will the I-26 westbound closure take place?
The I-26 westbound closure will start at 10 p.m. on Saturday, October 18 and is expected to continue until the morning of October 19.
How will traffic be affected during the closure?
During the closure, all westbound traffic between Interstate 526 and Ashley Phosphate Road will be detoured onto Rivers Avenue (U.S. 52).
How can drivers stay informed about the closure?
SCDOT advises drivers to check the SCDOT website or local traffic advisories for updates regarding the I-26 closure.
Key Features of the I-26 Westbound Closure
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Closure Start Time | 10 p.m. on Saturday, October 18 |
| Expected End Time | Morning of October 19 |
| Location of Closure | I-26 Westbound between I-526 and Ashley Phosphate Road |
| Detour Route | Rivers Avenue (U.S. 52) |
| Purpose | Repair Eagle Drive overpass |
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Additional Resources
- ABC News 4
- Wikipedia: Interstate 26
- Count On 2
- Google Search: I26 South Carolina
- Live 5 News
- Google Scholar: I26 closures
- Post and Courier
- Encyclopedia Britannica: bridge repair
- Count On 2 (Crash Report)
- Google News: North Charleston traffic
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