Exciting Improvements Coming to Columbia’s Atlas Road!
Columbia, S.C. — Grab your hard hats and safety vests because some amazing changes are on the horizon for Atlas Road! Richland County officials rolled up their sleeves and officially broke ground on the Atlas Road widening project this past Thursday. Talk about a breath of fresh air for one of Columbia’s busiest corridors!
What’s the Plan?
So, let’s dive into what’s cooking! Right now, Atlas Road is a two-lane wonder, surrounded by an array of small businesses and a steady stream of traffic. But, in a major upgrade, the new project is set to bring about three additional lanes, including handy center turning lanes. Oh, and that’s not all—it’ll also have sidewalks and bike lanes! You can practically hear the cheers from the community already!
Local Voices Are Excited
Attrophia Bannister, a long-time resident near Atlas Road, is buzzing with excitement. “It will be a good idea for them to go walking, running, exercise, kids can walk,” she shared. Her enthusiasm mirrors many others who frequent the area—it seems everyone is ready for these changes!
Money Talks
Now, let’s talk numbers because, yes, this is an investment! According to Public Works Director, Michael Maloney, the total cost of the project is estimated to be between $56 and $60 million. The project is cleverly divided into two phases. The first phase will take place from Garners Ferry Road to Shop Road, while the second phase will stretch from Shop Road to Bluff Road. Phase one alone is projected to cost around $48 million, with some $8 million already shelled out for relocating utilities in the area.
What to Expect During Construction
Now, we all know construction can be a bit cumbersome at times. Maloney stated that relocating utilities is expected to take around 18 months. But don’t fret! They’re gearing up for construction on both phases concurrently, which should keep the momentum going! While there may be some traffic hiccups during the process, Attrophia is keeping a positive outlook: “I live over here so I frequent in this area, so it would be a great idea,” she commented.
When Will It All Be Ready?
We know you’re eagerly wondering when this beast of a project will be all wrapped up. Well, officials are eyeing 2025 to put the project out for bids, and they hope to finalize the work within the next three years. Can you picture it? Wider lanes, more accessibility, and a neighborhood that feels even more alive!
The Big Picture
Ultimately, these enhancements to Atlas Road will not only improve the flow of traffic but also increase safety and accessibility for everyone—whether you’re walking, jogging, or biking. It’s a win-win situation, making the community a better place to live and breathe. So, mark your calendars and stay tuned, because Atlantic Road is gearing up for a fantastic transformation!
