News Summary
Fort Mill is set to undergo significant traffic changes as upgrades at I-77’s Exit 85 near S.C. 160 are completed. With a project cost nearing $150 million, lane shifts and closures will occur starting Sunday night. The improvements aim to alleviate congestion and enhance traffic flow, particularly with new flyover bridges. Drivers are encouraged to stay informed about real-time traffic updates during this transitional period, as increased vehicle volume is expected in the area.
Traffic Changes Coming to Fort Mill’s I-77 as Major Upgrade Wraps Up
Fort Mill residents and drivers, buckle up! The traffic patterns on I-77 are getting ready for a significant change due to the ongoing upgrades at Exit 85, where S.C. 160 crosses the interstate. With a hefty price tag of nearly $150 million, this project is one of the major undertakings in the area, aiming to enhance your drive through one of South Carolina’s busiest regions.
When Will These Changes Happen?
Mark your calendars! The first shift in traffic is set for this Sunday night, assuming Mother Nature cooperates. Southbound drivers can expect to find their lanes shifted to the outside shoulder as the construction crew from United Blythe Joint Venture takes the next steps in the project. Check your rearview mirrors, because on Monday night, northbound traffic will be directed onto a new on-ramp, creating a ripple effect for all who travel this busy stretch.
But wait, there’s more! On Tuesday night, northbound traffic will move to the outside shoulder as well. A temporary concrete median wall is also in the mix, with installation starting Tuesday night and expected to last through Friday. If you happen to be driving in the area, be prepared for lane closures and shifting traffic patterns throughout this week—the goal is to improve your future commutes!
Project Overview and Funding
This major upgrade at Exit 85 was initially funded five years ago by the South Carolina Transportation Infrastructure Bank, which allocated $75 million for improvements to both Exit 85 and Exit 82 in Rock Hill. A chunk of that—approximately $42 million—was assigned specifically for Exit 85. However, what started with a projected cost of just over $40 million has now skyrocketed to close to that impressive $150 million figure. The increase in costs is attributed to more extensive designs and the always-growing costs of materials and labor.
What’s New in the Design?
So, what can drivers expect once the dust settles? The new design features exciting upgrades including flyover bridges that will significantly improve traffic flow in the bustling Baxter and Kingsley areas of Fort Mill. This part of the town already sees a high volume of traffic, with around 125,000 vehicles per day vying for space. Traffic counts indicate a noted increase of more than 9% in vehicle volume between 2021 and 2023 in the vicinity of the Exit 85 interchange. Notably, S.C. 160 has also experienced a growth spurt with around 38,700 vehicle trips daily, a rise of 9.6% from the previous two years.
Stay Informed While on the Road
As these changes unfold and the construction continues, it’s essential for drivers to stay updated. For those looking for real-time information, lane closures, and traffic updates, 511sc.org is the go-to site for live traffic updates and camera feeds. Staying informed will help make your drive a little less stressful during this transitional phase.
Traffic in Fort Mill is about to get a little more complex, but these upgrades promise to pave the way for smoother travels in the future. Enjoy the ride as these improvements start to unfold, and remember—success in construction always requires a little patience!
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- WCNC: Fort Mill Crossing Guards Call Out Safety Efforts
- Audacy: Highway Layout Changing in Northeast Tarrant County
- WBTV: SC’s First Ever Diverging Diamond Traffic Pattern Opens in York County
- WCNC: I-485 Expansion Safety Concerns in Charlotte, North Carolina
- Wikipedia: Traffic
Author: STAFF HERE ROCK HILL
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