Irmo Takes Steps Toward Safer Broad River Road!
IRMO, S.C. — Big news for the folks in Irmo! The town is one step closer to transforming Broad River Road into a safer, more navigable route for everyone. At a lively council meeting held last night, members gave the green light to sell about 0.3 acres of land on Broad River Road to Richland County. This is a crucial step in a long-awaited improvement project that aims to widen the road from two lanes to five lanes!
Waiting for Progress
For years, residents have voiced their hopes and concerns about the traffic situation on Broad River Road. Now, with the enthusiastic approval from the council, leaders feel optimistic that changes are on the horizon. Mayor Bill Danielson said, “It’s been a long time, so people are eager for it to happen.”
Danielson explained that the property sold was actually a generous donation accepted by the town about 15 months ago. Initially unsure of its purpose, it turns out this land was exactly what was needed for the widening project. “We knew Broad River was going to be widened. And now that’s come to fruition that they need that property to widen it,” he shared, relieved that everything is lining up so nicely.
Financial Win for Irmo
What’s even better? The town made a cool $80,000 from the sale! Mayor Danielson mentioned, “We just made $80,000, so we’ll take that.” The closing costs for the deal will only be around $4,000 to $5,000, making this a financially smart move for Irmo.
Improvements Ahead
About three to four months ago, the county approached the town regarding this sale, setting the stage for enhancements that the area desperately needs. The mayor provided some exciting updates, mentioning that not only will the road be widened, but additional traffic features will also be introduced to keep everyone safe.
“It’s then gonna be turned into a pretty wide thoroughfare,” Danielson added, detailing plans for new traffic lights at crucial intersections, including a new light at Royal Tower and another near where Farming Creek comes out. These adjustments are aimed at preventing accidents and improving the flow of traffic.
Local Business Owners Chime In
The news has sparked considerable excitement among local business owners along Broad River. They see these changes as an opportunity for improved visibility and heightened public safety. Ben Umberger, the owner of Carolina Conservation, which sits directly across from the property being sold, expressed his enthusiasm. In a statement he shared with us, he said, “We have been hopeful about this project becoming a reality for several years. Navigating in and out of this intersection is a nightmare more times than not. We witness accidents and near misses with pedestrians on a regular basis.”
Umberger believes that the addition of more lanes and traffic lights will significantly enhance the safety of everyone traveling through the area as well as make it easier for customers to access nearby businesses.
What’s Next?
With the property sale officially approved, Mayor Danielson shared that the project should kick off soon. The first item on the agenda? Relocating telephone poles to make way for the improvements. Residents can expect to see progress soon as the town and county team up to make Broad River Road safer for all!
So, Irmo, stay tuned! The road changes are coming, and they’ll not only enhance safety but also brighten up the community as a whole.
