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Construction Begins on Ashley River Crossing Bridge

Rendering of the Ashley River Crossing pedestrian bridge in Charleston, S.C.

News Summary

Charleston, S.C. is initiating construction on the Ashley River Crossing pedestrian bridge, enhancing connectivity between West Ashley and downtown. Managed by Mastec-Civil, the project will cost around $90 million, funded by federal, state, and local dollars. The bridge will promote pedestrian and cyclist safety with connections to key city areas. A groundbreaking ceremony is set to take place, with completion expected by 2028, showcasing a commitment to urban infrastructure improvement.

Charleston, S.C. is set to begin construction on the highly anticipated Ashley River Crossing pedestrian bridge project, which aims to improve accessibility and connectivity between the West Ashley region and downtown Charleston. Construction is scheduled to commence Wednesday afternoon, marking a significant achievement after nearly 15 years of planning and discussions.

The project will be managed by Mastec-Civil and is expected to cost approximately $90 million. Funding for the bridge is being sourced from multiple avenues, including about $73.7 million in federal grants, $3 million from Charleston County, and $5.3 million from the state. This diverse funding approach showcases the collaborative efforts of local, state, and federal agencies to enhance urban mobility.

Project Details and Features

The Ashley River Crossing bridge has been designed to include multiple connections to key areas, including Brittlebank Park, Bee Street, Lockwood Drive, and the City Marina. Once constructed, the bridge will enable pedestrians and cyclists to travel easily from West Ashley to the Isle of Palms, eliminating the need for car travel on this route.

As part of the overall infrastructure enhancement, the project emphasizes pedestrian and cyclist safety by integrating various safety measures, particularly at critical crossings like Lockwood Drive and Bee Street. These considerations are an essential part of the planning process, ensuring a safer transit experience for users.

Schedule and Progress

A groundbreaking ceremony will occur at the construction site located at 25 Folly Road Blvd on the West Ashley side, marking an official start to this vital project. Construction is anticipated to commence on the West Ashley side, with plans to extend towards the downtown area as progress continues.

The project is designed to link several existing mobility projects, including the Ashley River Walk and an extension of the Battery, providing further integration of pedestrian and cycling pathways in the region. The bridge’s design underwent revisions to reinstate a crucial connection to the Medical District via Lockwood Drive, addressing previous concerns regarding the project’s impact on connectivity in the area.

Background Information

The concept for the Ashley River Crossing pedestrian bridge has evolved significantly since its initial proposal, with the cost rising from an initial estimate of $22 million in 2019 due to fluctuating material costs and raises in project scope. This escalation in cost has underscored the importance of thorough planning and adaptive strategies in urban infrastructure projects.

Concerns have been raised throughout the planning stages, with some critics expressing that recent changes might disrupt the project’s original goal of enhancing connectivity. However, city officials have worked diligently to reassure stakeholders that the bridge will fulfill its intended purpose while also prioritizing safety and accessibility for all users.

Once completed, the bridge is expected to be a significant asset to Charleston, with an anticipated finish date of 2028. This project reinforces the city’s ongoing commitment to improving urban infrastructure and providing residents and visitors with efficient and safe transportation options across different modes of travel.

In summary, the Ashley River Crossing pedestrian bridge represents a crucial development for both the residents of West Ashley and downtown Charleston. Its construction underscores a concerted effort to create a more interconnected and walkable city, positioning Charleston as a progressive urban center.