COLUMBIA, S.C. — Exciting Changes Ahead for Atlas Road!
Columbia residents, get ready for some fantastic improvements coming your way! Richland County officials recently broke ground on a project that promises to transform Atlas Road into a safer and more accessible corridor for everyone. The buzz is real as the road, currently consisting of just two lanes with a flow of local traffic and lined with small businesses, is about to get a significant upgrade!
What’s Happening?
The ambitious project aims to widen Atlas Road and add an array of features that will enhance travel for vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists alike. Picture this: soon, there will be three new driving lanes, complete with a dedicated center turning lane. Oh, and let’s not forget the addition of sidewalks and bicycle lanes to promote active lifestyles! Imagine families going for walks or jogs along a well-organized and safe route.
What Do Residents Think?
Residents are excited about the upcoming changes! One local, Attrophia Bannister, expressed her enthusiasm, noting, “It will be a good idea for them to go walking, running, exercise, kids can walk.” With plans for new paths and space to roam safely, it seems the community couldn’t be more ready for this project to kick off!
How Much Will This Cost?
So, what’s the price tag on this extensive project? According to Public Works Director Michael Maloney, the project will cost between $56 million and $60 million. It’s divided into two phases: Phase 1 focuses on the stretch from Garners Ferry Road to Shop Road, while Phase 2 will cover the route from Shop Road to Bluff Road. The first phase is already under way, with around $8 million spent to relocate utilities along Atlas Road.
Construction Timeline
Wondering when all this construction is going to happen? Well, Maloney estimates that the utility relocation process will take approximately 18 months. But don’t worry; both phases of construction will happen simultaneously once the groundwork is laid out. Officials are targeting 2025 for the project to go out to bid, and they’re hoping to wrap it all up within the next three years!
Traffic Disruptions Ahead
Of course, any construction project comes with its share of inconveniences. There will be some traffic disruptions to be expected along Atlas Road as the work progresses. However, residents like Bannister believe that the disruption will be worth it in the long run. She mentioned, “I live over here so I frequent in this area, so it would be a great idea.”
The Big Picture
Overall, this revitalization of Atlas Road is a huge step in ensuring better safety, improved traffic flow, and greater accessibility in the Columbia community. With exciting improvements on the horizon, it’s clear that the future of Atlas Road looks bright!
Columbia, hold onto your hats—some remarkable changes are just around the corner!
