If you’ve ever been caught in a rush, stuck at the Woods Memorial Bridge in downtown Beaufort, then you know the frustration of waiting for the bridge to open unexpectedly.
Whether you’re heading to or from the sea islands, not knowing when the bridge will open can throw off your plans. But now, thanks to a new app, you can avoid that headache altogether.
Introducing the WoodsBridge App
Local app developer Alex Holroyde has created the WoodsBridge App, designed to give drivers real-time updates on when the Woods Memorial Bridge is open or about to open.
The app, available for iPhone users in the App Store (with an Android version coming soon), allows you to stay ahead of the unpredictable openings, helping you make informed decisions about whether to stick with your route or use the McTeer Bridge as an alternative.
“I’ve lived in Beaufort long enough to know the bridge runs our lives,” says Alex. “Whether you’re late to work, trying to get the kids somewhere, or just trying to get home — that bridge is the variable nobody can plan around.”
Key Features of the WoodsBridge App
- Real-Time Alerts: The app provides real-time alerts when the Woods Memorial Bridge is opening, so you don’t have to guess or wait in frustration.
- Community Input: The app allows local drivers to help one another by alerting others when a boat is approaching. If you’re crossing the bridge and see a vessel coming, simply tap “Boat Approaching” in the app to warn other users of an upcoming opening. Users can also confirm when the bridge is open or when traffic is clear again.
- Local Info: In addition to the bridge updates, the WoodsBridge App provides a wealth of local information, including:
- Live camera views of the bridge, so you can see the current state in real time.
- Boater Info: Tides, wind, and wave data.
- Community Tab: Up-to-date details on what’s happening around Beaufort this week.
- Family Life Tab: Information on kids’ sports leagues, birthday venues, playgrounds, and more.
Solving a Local Problem with a Local Solution
Alex set out to create this app because, like many in the community, he was frustrated by the unscheduled openings of the bridge that frequently disrupt daily life. “A few weeks ago, the bridge opened at 8:30 a.m. on a Thursday morning.
Last Friday, a barge came through at 5:00 p.m. during rush hour — and it looked like it was a mile long,” he recalls. Recognizing the problem, he designed the WoodsBridge App to make life easier for everyone.
“I wanted to solve this problem for myself, and I realized the whole community needed it,” he added. The app now connects people, creating a community-driven solution where everyone can help keep each other informed.
Available Now for iPhone and Coming Soon to Android
The WoodsBridge App is available for download in the App Store for iPhone users. Android users can expect the app to be available within a week. To download it, simply search for “WoodsBridge App” or visit the app’s download page.
