Construction crews working on the major highway revamp at Malfunction Junction.
Columbia, SC, is embarking on a $2 billion project to revamp the notorious Malfunction Junction, improving traffic flow and safety for over 134,000 daily drivers. The ongoing construction includes clearing vegetation, constructing new bridges, and implementing modern interchanges to address chronic congestion issues that lead to significant travel delays. Phases of the project are set for completion by 2029, with the first phase targeted for late 2024 to alleviate existing traffic problems and prepare for anticipated population growth in the Midlands area by 2040.
Columbia, South Carolina, is getting ready for some serious roadwork with the launch of a massive $2 billion overhaul of the infamous Interstate 20, 26, and 126 corridor, popularly known as ‘Malfunction Junction.’ This ambitious reconstruction aims to breathe new life into one of the state’s busiest traffic spots, notorious for congestion troubles that drivers have been braving for years.
The first phase is already underway, with crews tasked to clear away about 170 acres of trees and other vegetation along I-26, specifically between Bush River and Beatty roads. This clear-out will set the stage for more extensive work on the I-20 and I-26 interchange, which isn’t set to kick off until 2030. But don’t worry, there’s plenty going on right now to keep things moving smoothly!
At the moment, the construction crew is diligently working to complete travel lanes and ramps on I-26 and I-126 around Colonial Life Boulevard. They are also busy building two new bridges over I-20 to help ease some of that pesky traffic congestion. Mark your calendars, folks: a new exit ramp from I-20 West to I-26 West is set to open on January 9! However, with change comes sacrifice, as the existing I-20 West exit ramp at the I-26 interchange will be permanently closed.
With an average of 112 hours of traffic delays experienced annually by over 134,000 drivers passing through this corridor each day, it’s clear that changes are long overdue. The overall project, spanning 14 miles, is designed to enhance safety and minimize congestion, making those commutes a lot less painful for locals. The initiative also reflects South Carolina’s foresight, anticipating a predicted 70% population growth in the Midlands by 2040.
For those following the progression of the project, Phase 1 is zooming along with a targeted completion by late 2024, focusing on vital improvements on I-126 and stretches of I-20 close to Bush River Road. Phase 2, which kicked off in late 2022, is bringing in new bridges and introducing diverging diamond interchanges with an eye toward modern efficiency.
While the goals are clear and enthusiasm is high, managing this massive project certainly isn’t without its challenges. Labor shortages have created some bumps in the road, but the joint venture overseeing the work is actively on the hunt for more workers to join the effort. The SCDOT is working hard to ensure that traffic flows as smoothly as possible during all this construction, promising only a few overnight lane closures to minimize disruptions.
As this major construction gets underway, environmental considerations are front and center. Special attention is being paid to sensitive areas, especially near the Saluda River. Measures will be in place for flood control during the construction phases, and the project has secured a 404 permit from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. This means land preservation and restoration for wetlands affected by construction is a priority, ensuring that nature isn’t left behind.
The SCDOT is committed to keeping the community in the loop about the ongoing work and future phases through periodic public information meetings. The entire overhaul is aimed for completion by the end of 2029, but with the current pace, the first two phases are expected to hit their deadlines right on schedule by Spring 2025.
As Columbia embraces this major revitalization project, residents and commuters alike can look forward to a more efficient and safer travel experience in the years to come. Buckle up, folks! The road ahead is about to get a whole lot smoother.
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