New Exit Ramp Set to Open for Columbia Drivers

News Summary

Columbia residents can look forward to a new exit ramp connecting westbound Interstate 20 to Interstate 26, scheduled to open soon. This is part of the Carolina Crossroads Project aimed at improving traffic flow in the heavily congested area known as ‘Malfunction Junction.’ Drivers should prepare for the closure of the previous exit and look for overhead signs guiding them to the new ramp. With a budget of $2.1 billion, the Carolina Crossroads Project plans to ease traffic congestion and prepare for population growth in the Midlands.

Exciting News for Columbia Drivers!

Columbia residents, gear up! A brand-new exit ramp that connects westbound drivers on Interstate 20 to Interstate 26 is set to open on Thursday. This marvelous development is part of the much-anticipated Carolina Crossroads Project, which aims to improve traffic flow in what many have coined as the “Malfunction Junction” of Columbia.

What to Expect

The new exit ramp will be situated closer to Broad River Road than the previous exit, which will be permanently closed once the new ramp opens. Although officials haven’t shared an exact time for the grand opening, rumors hint that it might occur late in the day. So, keep your eyes peeled and your GPS handy!

For those traveling eastbound on either Interstate 20 or 26—no changes are on the horizon for you! This opening mainly affects the westbound traffic heading toward I-26.

Directions and Signage

To help drivers navigate this transition smoothly, overhead signs will be popping up near the Broad River Road overpass. These signs will guide motorist inching toward the new ramp so you won’t get lost amid all the excitement.

Why the Change?

So, why is all this updating happening? Well, the Carolina Crossroads Project is no small potatoes. It stands as one of the largest construction initiatives in South Carolina’s history, with an eye-popping budget of $2.1 billion! The project aims to ease the heavy congestion faced at the junction of Interstates 20, 26, and 126—an area that currently sees over 134,000 vehicles each day.

What’s Next?

As the current exit from I-20 west to I-26 west closes its doors, some pretty thrilling developments are lined up for the future. The project plans to implement fancy new interchanges like turbine and diverging diamond designs, along with new bridges, to enhance the driving experience in this bustling corridor.

Looking forward, we can expect more construction phases, with various segments of the project aiming for completion between 2024 and 2029. This timeline sounds ambitious, but it’s all about future-proofing the highways to accommodate the projected 70% population growth expected in the Midlands by 2040.

Traffic Woes Be Gone!

For those who are fed up with sitting in traffic (and who isn’t?), the Department of Transportation is taking steps designed to minimize disruption during the ongoing construction efforts. The aim is to cut down on the average of 112 hours that drivers currently spend stuck in traffic each year along this route. Now that’s something to smile about!

Construction Progress

Currently, crews are focused on the early parts of Phase 3, which includes utility relocations and construction on those super helpful frontage roads. And if you’re eager to stay updated on all things Carolina Crossroads, feel free to check out their project webpage or give them a ring at 800-601-8715 for the latest news and traffic conditions.

Get Ready for a Smoother Drive!

With the new exit ramp making its debut, Columbia drivers can rejoice at the prospect of more efficient travel. So mark your calendars, and let’s roll into this exciting new chapter for our roads!