Major Safety Improvements Planned for Gervais Street in Columbia

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Construction efforts to enhance safety for pedestrians and cyclists on Gervais Street.

News Summary

Columbia will see significant safety enhancements on Gervais Street thanks to a new project by the SCDOT. With a history of 1,700 crashes over five years, including pedestrian incidents, plans include signal upgrades, better signage, and high-visibility crosswalks. Community feedback is being solicited until April 10, 2025, as the project aims for completion by 2027, pending funding. Residents express mixed feelings but anticipate improved safety for all road users.

Attention Columbia Residents! Exciting Safety Improvements Coming to Gervais Street

Columbia, South Carolina, is about to see some major changes aimed at making Gervais Street safer for everyone who travels through this bustling area. The South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT) has announced a road safety assessment project focused on a well-traveled two-mile stretch of Gervais, running from Gist Street to Millwood Avenue.

Why the Changes?

Gervais Street isn’t just a street; it’s one of the busiest corridors in downtown Columbia, bustling with pedestrians and cyclists alike. But it hasn’t been all smooth sailing. Over the last five years, there have been a staggering 1,700 crashes reported along this route, with a concerning 70 involving pedestrians. Clearly, something needed to be done, and that’s why SCDOT has taken the initiative to enhance safety in this critical area.

What’s on the Table?

The proposed improvements are more than just minor tweaks. SCDOT has a comprehensive plan that includes signal upgrades to improve traffic flow and visibility, along with enhanced signage to keep drivers informed. Plans also include sidewalk improvements to ensure that pedestrian pathways are safer and more accessible. Of particular interest are the plans to install high-visibility crosswalks at all intersections! This means that pedestrians will have a better chance of being seen when crossing, which is a big step towards reducing accidents.

More Safety Features Ahead!

But that’s not all—the project might also feature some additional safety measures. Expect the addition of medians to help separate traffic, curb extensions to make crossing distances shorter for pedestrians, and a thorough examination of potential speed limit adjustments. The goal is clear: enhance safety for everyone, whether you’re behind the wheel, walking, or biking in this vibrant area.

Community Input Plays a Key Role

April 10, 2025. Whether you’re excited about the changes or think existing measures are enough, your voice matters!

Timeline for Construction

Now, let’s talk about when you can expect to see these improvements. While it might feel like a bit of a wait, construction is expected to kick off in 2026 and wrap up by 2027, contingent on securing approximately $5 million in funding from the federal Highway Safety Improvement Program. So, mark your calendars and stay tuned!

Mixed Reactions from Residents

As with any significant project, opinions among local residents have been mixed. Some folks feel that the current safety measures are sufficient and question the need for additional changes. Yet, the hope is that these enhancements will ultimately create a safer environment for everyone, reducing the risk of accidents and providing peace of mind for those who traverse this busy street daily.

Walking the Talk: Similar Improvements on the Way

This initiative doesn’t stand alone. There are also ongoing plans for safety enhancements on nearby Assembly Street, another area known for pedestrian accidents. Together, these efforts signal a growing commitment to ensuring the safety of Columbia’s residents and visitors.

Stay Engaged!

So, Columbia, what do you think? The chance for safer streets is on the horizon, and your feedback can help shape the future of Gervais Street. Be sure to join the conversation and make your voice heard!