JOHNS ISLAND, S.C. — As Charleston County moves forward with a more than $350 million road project aimed at easing congestion at the intersection of U.S. Highway 17 and Main Road, some drivers are expressing frustration over the disruptions to their daily routines and concerns about safety. The long-planned project includes a new interchange with flyover off-ramps and a bridge over U.S. 17, designed to address persistent traffic backups in one of the region’s fastest-growing areas.
Concerns Over Road Closures and Business Access
A key concern for drivers, such as James Adams, is the closure of Old Charleston Highway, which is being used for construction equipment storage and crew movement. This closure has restricted direct access to nearby businesses, including a Waffle House, laundromat, and seafood restaurant. Drivers who once used Old Charleston Highway as a shortcut must now navigate the heavily congested intersection, which has raised safety concerns for many commuters.
County Officials Address Concerns and Emphasize Long-Term Benefits
Project Manager Herb Nimz acknowledged the frustrations of local drivers but emphasized the long-term benefits of the improvements. He assured the community that while temporary disruptions are inevitable, the goal of the project is to reduce congestion and improve travel safety in the area. The project is expected to be completed by September 2028, though no timeline has been given for when Old Charleston Highway will reopen.
