Commute Alert: Lane Closure on Clemson Road Due to Utility Relocation

COLUMBIA, S.C. — Commute Alert: Changes Coming to Clemson Road

Hey there, Columbia residents! If you use Clemson Road for your daily commute, it’s time to pay attention because things are about to change for the next couple of months. Starting this Monday, the South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT) is set to close a lane on Clemson Road, which may add some time to your commute. So, let’s break it down!

What’s Happening?

According to SCDOT officials, this lane closure is due to a utility relocation. Let’s face it: not the most exciting topic, right? But it’s important! Hannah Robinson from SCDOT shared that the team needs to relocate a waterline, and this means getting under the pavement of Clemson Road. Specifically, the right lane will be shut down, and that includes the right lane on Hard Scrabble Road leading into Clemson Road. This decision was made to keep everyone safe and to allow for the work to go smoothly.

When Will It Happen?

The lane closure kicks off this Monday and is expected to last until December. So, make sure to factor that in while planning your travels. The area affected starts at the entrance of Hope Baptist Church and stretches down to Brooke Hollow Drive. While one lane will remain open to allow folks to enter and exit businesses safely, it’s still worth considering alternative routes.

What Should Commuters Expect?

With the holidays just around the corner, Kacy Williams, a manager at Pet Supplies Plus, expressed some concerns. She mentioned, “It’s probably going to impact the store quite a bit.” It seems many customers prefer this location over heading to PetSmart on Two Notch Road, primarily to avoid its notorious traffic jams. But with this lane closure, it looks like traffic could become an issue near her store as everyone tries to navigate the changes.

Williams also noted that, with holiday shopping heating up, the backlog of vehicles could stretch all the way down to Walgreens if everyone heads to Sand Hills. “The lane is going to be backed up,” she remarked. It seems that shoppers may need a little extra patience as they navigate through the area.

Sidewalks Will Be Closed Too

But it’s not just the lanes that will be impacted; SCDOT has also announced that sidewalks in the area will be closed. With this particular stretch being rather busy, they urge everyone to stay vigilant and exercise caution. “We just ask that people slow down and pay attention,” Robinson advised, adding, “because our crews are going to be in those areas, and we want everybody to go home safe at the end of the day.”

Looking for Alternatives

So, what can you do to make your daily travels smoother? Experts recommend finding alternative routes to help ease the inevitable traffic congestion. It might take a little extra planning on your part, but it could save you from sitting in a long line of cars. And remember, it’s always good to stay informed and adapt to the changing road conditions.

Final Thoughts

While these kinds of road improvements can be a bit disruptive, they’re often necessary for the long-term benefit of the community. So, keep your eyes peeled and be patient with one another. Hold on to that holiday spirit, because soon enough, all this construction will lead to better roads for everyone to enjoy. Happy commuting, Columbia!