News Summary
The proposed $2.2 billion Mark Clark Extension project in Charleston County has been canceled after voters rejected a tax increase to fund it. Despite this setback, the county is advancing multiple significant road improvement projects, including major intersections and interchange upgrades aimed at improving traffic flow and safety. Notable projects include the Highway 17 flyover, Palmetto Commerce Interchange, and upgrades to U.S. Highway 17 and Main Road, highlighting a shift in focus towards existing infrastructure improvements.
Charleston County Infrastructure Developments: Mark Clark Extension Dropped While Multiple Major Road Projects Advance
Charleston, SC – The proposed $2.2 billion Mark Clark Extension project, designed to connect West Ashley to James and Johns Islands, has officially been canceled following a referendum where voters rejected a tax increase to fund the project last fall. Despite this setback, Charleston County is moving forward with a variety of significant road improvement projects.
Major Projects Underway
Among the ongoing developments is the highly anticipated flyover construction at the intersection of Highway 17 and Main Road, which commenced on March 12, 2025. The project aims to ease traffic congestion and enhance safety in the area.
Another significant development is the Palmetto Commerce Interchange project, linking Weber Boulevard to Interstate 26. This project is expected to be completed by early 2026 and is part of efforts to improve overall traffic flow in the region.
The interchange of U.S. Highway 17 and Main Road in West Ashley is set to undergo a $364 million overhaul. This extensive upgrade includes flyovers, a new interchange for drivers wishing to avoid the Main Road intersection, a bridge over CSX Railroad, a roundabout at Main, Chisholm, and River roads, as well as the widening of Main Road. This has become the largest infrastructure project in Charleston County history and is expected to be completed by fall 2028.
Additional Infrastructure Improvements
In addition to these major projects, three intersection improvement projects along Savannah Highway are in progress. These projects will enhance safety and traffic management, with the city actively managing right-of-way acquisition for the Avondale Avenue project. Improvements will also take place at intersections with Wappoo Road, Dupont Road, and Stinson Drive.
The Palmetto Commerce Interchange project, located near Charleston International Airport, is expected to be finished by February 2026. Meanwhile, right-of-way acquisition for the Airport Connector Road project began in April, with construction scheduled to start in the third quarter of 2026.
Upcoming Initiatives
The third phase of the Palmetto Commerce Parkway is still in the permitting phase, while construction is anticipated to commence in 2028 or later. In addition, project officials plan to combine two projects on James Island to enhance competitiveness among contractors. These improvements will include the installation of turn lanes, a traffic signal, and a roundabout.
Improvements at Central Park Road and Riverland Drive are actively underway, with final plans being made for a right turn lane. Another highlighted initiative, the Folly Road Bike & Ped Project, involves the construction of variable-width sidewalks and dedicated bike lanes, although it has encountered budget-related bid issues.
The long-awaited Airport Connector Road project recently received environmental approval from the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA). With this approval, the project can advance into right-of-way acquisition, expected to cost nearly $200 million. The initiative aims to create a safer connection to the airport and improve regional traffic flow, with construction estimated to last about two years once it commences. Community support for the Airport Connector has been solid, with many local property owners expressing willingness to sell or relocate as necessary to facilitate the development.
Context on Infrastructure Challenges
The cancellation of the Mark Clark Extension highlighted ongoing challenges in infrastructure funding and public support for large projects in Charleston County. As the community continues to grow, the emphasis on enhancing existing roads and developing new connections remains critical to ensuring a functional transportation network.
As Charleston County navigates these infrastructure challenges, the focus now shifts to leveraging available resources to improve existing roadways and streamline traffic flow for residents.
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Additional Resources
- Post and Courier: Mark Clark Extension Update
- Live 5 News: County-Owned Airport Connector Road Project
- Greenville Business Magazine: Airport Connector Road Approval
- Charleston Business: Charleston County Airport Connector Road
- ABC News 4: Concerns Over Main Road Project
- Wikipedia: Infrastructure
- Google Search: Charleston County road projects
- Google Scholar: Charleston infrastructure projects
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Transportation Infrastructure
- Google News: Charleston road projects
