COLUMBIA, S.C. — Prepare for some traffic changes on Clemson Road!
As we head into the next couple of months, residents and commuters near Clemson Road should brace themselves for longer daily drives. Starting this Monday, the South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT) is closing a lane on Clemson Road in northeast Richland County. The lane closure is part of an essential project to relocate a waterline.
What’s Happening?
According to Hannah Robinson from SCDOT, “We’re doing a utility relocation on Clemson Road.” She explained that the closure mainly affects the right lane of the road. “Basically, in order to relocate the waterline, we’re going to have to get into the right lane of Clemson Road. So that’s the lane that we’re closing, and we’re going to have to get under the pavement,” Robinson said.
The affected lane will be closed starting Monday and could remain shut down all the way into December. Additionally, the right lane on Hard Scrabble Road leading onto Clemson Road will also be closed to keep traffic clear from the utility work.
How Will This Affect You?
Now, before you start groaning, there’s a silver lining! Although one lane will be closed, businesses along the road will still be accessible. “If your business, if you’re trying to get into a business, or one of the roads that are off of the area of Clemson Road that’s closed, you will still be able to get in and out of there,” assured Robinson.
However, for some local businesses, the construction is likely to have an impact. Take Kacy Williams, for example, the manager at Pet Supplies Plus. She expressed concern, saying, “It’s going to impact the store a good bit, probably. I know most people don’t like going over to Two Notch because of the traffic over there, so they come here instead of going to PetSmart. But now, it’s going to be traffic over here.”
With the busy holiday shopping season just around the corner, Williams noted, “And with the holidays coming up, everyone’s going to go down to Sand Hills, so this lane is going to be backed up, probably all the way down to Walgreens down there.” So, if you’re planning to shop in the area, just keep that in mind!
Mind the Sidewalks!
In addition to the lane closure, SCDOT has announced that sidewalks in the area will also be closed. Since this is a busy, populated region, they are urging drivers and pedestrians to stay vigilant. Robinson stated, “We just ask that people slow down and pay attention because our crews are going to be in those areas, and we want everybody to go home safe at the end of the day.”
Alternative Routes
To help with the anticipated congestion, SCDOT suggests considering alternative routes. If you have the flexibility in your commute, exploring different ways to reach your final destination might save you time and frustration.
As the work on Clemson Road kicks off, residents and commuters should stay informed and patient. The utility relocation is a necessary step to improve infrastructure, but it might come with some delays in the meantime. So grab your coffee, put on a favorite playlist, and enjoy the ride, even if it’s a bit longer than usual!
Stay safe out there, Columbia, and happy commuting!
