News Summary
Lexington County is moving forward with plans for a new exit off Interstate 20 at Calks Ferry Road to alleviate traffic congestion in the area. Following a unanimous county council vote, the project aims to enhance traffic flow around Exit 51 at Longs Pond Road. Local officials hope that this development will address the growing concerns of residents, particularly with the increase in daily traffic and population in the Red Bank area. Community feedback has been largely positive, and residents are optimistic about the project alleviating congestion over the next decade.
Lexington County Takes Big Steps Toward New Interstate Exit
In a move aimed at alleviating traffic woes, Lexington County is gearing up for an exciting new project—an additional exit off Interstate 20. The proposed exit, slated to be located at Calks Ferry Road, just past the bustling Red Bank area, is part of a comprehensive plan to improve traffic flow that has been in the making for the last eight years.
County Council’s Approval Marks a New Beginning
On March 11, county council members came together and voted unanimously to take a significant step forward by approving an engineering contract. This decision has set the wheels in motion for a project that many believe is long overdue. The county is looking to invest about $995,000 into engineering consulting, which covers crucial components such as a traffic study and precise designs for the interchange. However, before any construction can begin, officials will need to submit an Interchange Justification Report to the Federal Highway Administration, outlining why this new exit is needed and how it will impact traffic.
Aiming for Better Traffic Flow
Local officials are particularly focused on improving the traffic flow around Exit 51 at Longs Pond Road, an area that has become notorious for congestion. Recent data showcases just how pressing the issue has become, with Interstate 20 averaging around 48,400 vehicles per day in 2023. The steady population growth of roughly 2,500 new residents in the Red Bank area over the past decade further emphasizes the need for a solution.
Councilman Darrell Hudson expressed the growing concerns from residents about the traffic. While there hasn’t been a flood of formal requests for a new exit, it’s clear that the community has silently clamored for such an improvement. Hudson recognizes the traffic issues, especially during peak times like school hours. Local resident Jessica Crapps also highlighted her frustrations with the heavy traffic on Longs Pond Road, advocating for the new exit as a necessity.
Community Support and Optimism
Feedback from residents has been mostly positive, with many people expressing hope that the new exit will significantly reduce daily traffic jams. One concerned resident noted that the current bottlenecks near Longs Pond can be quite maddening and anticipates that easing congestion could make daily commutes far more pleasant. The overwhelming sentiment among the community is one of optimism and eagerness for this development, as many believe it’s essential for the area’s growth and efficiency.
Looking Ahead—What’s Next?
While construction is still a way off, Hudson projects that the timeline for project completion could stretch to within the next 10 years. Costs associated with the project are still being determined, and officials will need to finalize the design and estimate costs before seeking state and county approvals. As citizens look to the future, they remain hopeful that the plans will come to fruition and provide relief from congestion.
Stay Cautious: Burn Ban in Effect
In other local news, Lexington County is currently under a burn ban due to a statewide Red Flag Fire Alert issued by the South Carolina Forestry Commission. Residents are reminded to be cautious and refrain from outdoor burning until further notice, keeping the community safe and informed.
As the plan for the new interstate exit progresses, it is clear the Lexington County community is ready for these changes. With a unified front from both officials and residents, this endeavor could pave the way for a smoother, more accessible future for everyone living in or traveling through the area.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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New Mixed-Use Apartment Building Proposed for Columbia
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Columbia’s No Name Deli Faces Uncertain Future Amid New Development
Tragic Pedestrian Collision in Columbia: Community Reacts
Traffic Troubles in Lexington: I-64 and South Street Encounter Roadblocks
Additional Resources
- WLTX: Proposed I-20 Exit in Lexington County
- Lexington Chronicle: SC Forestry Commission Issues Red Flag Fire Alert
- ABC Columbia: Lexington County Under Burn Ban
- The State: Local News Article
- WIS: Lawsuit After Woman Dies Following Surgery at Lexington Medical Center
- Wikipedia: Lexington County, South Carolina
- Google Search: Lexington County traffic improvement
- Google Scholar: Lexington County interstate exit
- Encyclopedia Britannica: South Carolina
- Google News: Lexington County burn ban
