SCDOT Approves Another $200 Million in Funding for Bridge Improvements
Thursday, July 18th, 2024, The South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT) announced the approval of an additional $200 million funding to further improve the state’s bridges. This is an increase from the existing $239 million already dedicated to improving the state’s bridge network.
The Breakdown of the Funding
The additional $200 million funding comprises $100 million dedicated for primary and interstate bridges with the remaining $100 million aimed at bridges on secondary roads, as stated in an SCDOT press release.
A Necessity for Sustainable Development
During the press conference, the Secretary of Transportation, Justin P. Powell, emphasized the importance of bridges as crucial infrastructures interconnecting various territories within the state. They allow first responders to reach emergency situations swiftly, play an essential role in transporting children to school, and facilitate the transfer of goods to the market.
He further added, “It is critical that we maintain our bridge network and today is another step towards ensuring we have a transportation system in South Carolina that is built for the bright future ahead.”
Plan for A Better Infrastructure
The additional funding was backed by the South Carolina General Assembly to expedite high-priority projects in line with their 10-year planning scheme. The primary objective is eradicating structurally deficient bridges on South Carolina’s National Highway System and minimizing the number of load-restricted bridges on the state’s secondary system.
This added budget will significantly expand the bridge program “beyond goals identified in the 10-year plan,” said a spokesperson from SCDOT. Within the current plan, there are endeavors to construct around 500 new bridges across the state. However, with the increased funding, it is speculated that the number might witness a substantial increase.
Progress in Construction and Maintenance
According to the SCDOT, it has already either completed or initiated the construction of 352 new bridges. It maintains over 8,400 bridges throughout the state, with less than 10% of those bridges being in a poor state.
Gratitude and Future Direction
Pamela Christopher, Chair of the Commission, in her remark, thanked the Governor and the entire General Assembly for their continuous and robust investment in the state’s infrastructure. “With their continued support, SCDOT is moving South Carolina forward,” she elucidated.
