News Summary
Columbia faces temporary traffic disruptions due to the ongoing Carolina Crossroads Project, aimed at improving notorious Malfunction Junction. Key off-ramps and lanes will be closed overnight for construction, starting this week. Drivers are advised to plan detours, as this $2.1 billion project will enhance safety and traffic flow with multiple improvements planned until 2029.
Traffic Advisory: Temporary Closures in Columbia for Carolina Crossroads Project
Hey there, Columbia! It seems like the traffic scene in our city is about to get a bit more challenging but ultimately better for everyone. The Carolina Crossroads Project is in full swing, and it’s set to transform the notorious intersection commonly referred to as Malfunction Junction. This project is a massive $2.1 billion undertaking, the largest highway improvement initiative in South Carolina history, and it aims to improve traffic flow and enhance safety in our bustling areas.
What’s Happening with the Exit Closures?
So, here’s the scoop: The South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT) has announced some temporary closures that drivers need to keep on their radar. Starting from 9 p.m. on Tuesday, the off-ramp from Interstate 126 westbound to Colonial Life Boulevard will be closed. Mark your calendars because this closure is planned to stretch until 7 a.m. on Wednesday.
But wait, don’t get too comfortable! After it reopens, there will be another overnight closure from 9 p.m. to 7 a.m. on Thursday for some additional construction work. During these times, drivers on I-126 will need to take a little detour. They’ll be redirected at Greystone Boulevard, turning left onto Broad River Road before getting back on track to Colonial Life Boulevard via Bush River Road. It’s a bit of a hassle, but hang in there as this project aims to fix those ongoing congestion headaches!
A Heads Up on Interstate 26
But that’s not all! There’s more construction going on that you should know about. A westbound lane on Interstate 26 will also be closed starting at 10 p.m. on Tuesday. This closure is due to overhead signage installation at the bridge over the Saluda River, just before Exit 108. The good news? This lane closure is expected to wrap up by 4 a.m. Wednesday, allowing drivers to easily access I-126 later on.
Why All This Construction?
The Carolina Crossroads Project is designed to tackle the traffic woes and safety issues at Malfunction Junction, where the major highways of I-20, I-26, and I-126 converge. This project will introduce over 40 new bridges, wider lanes, and new interchange styles to ensure smoother traffic flow and lessen the annual traffic congestion that has many frustrated.
Phase 1 of the projects focuses on enhancing I-126 and I-20, with an anticipated completion by the end of 2023. Following that, Phase 2 will concentrate on improving the areas around Broad River Road. Meanwhile, construction for Phase 3 is set to kick off in early 2025, with an overall project completion date aimed for 2029. So yes, it’s a long process, but the end will be worth it!
Staying Informed
The SCDOT is doing its best to manage construction risks while also keeping disruptions to traffic flow at a minimum. They’ve divided large phases into more manageable segments to help ease our commutes during this construction period. However, it’s important for all of us to be mindful of the situation. Community feedback has highlighted some serious concerns regarding increased traffic and backups due to the ongoing work.
To stay in the loop about construction and traffic updates, make sure to check out the project’s website or download the 511 SC app for real-time information. A little preparation can go a long way in avoiding frustration on the roads!
So hang in there, Columbia! The road may be bumpy right now, but brighter and smoother navigations are just around the corner.
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Additional Resources
- The State: Traffic Advisory on Carolina Crossroads
- Wikipedia: Carolina Crossroads Project
- WLTX: What Comes Next for Malfunction Junction
- Google Search: Malfunction Junction traffic updates
- Post and Courier: Progress on Carolina Crossroads
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Traffic Improvement Projects
- The State: Local Traffic Updates
- Google News: Columbia South Carolina traffic
