Mount Pleasant, S.C. – The Town of Mount Pleasant is almost done with its Shem Creek Bridge bike lanes project, which has been in the works for nine years and cost more than $1 million. The project aims to make the Shem Creek bridge safer and more accessible for cyclists and pedestrians.
What’s Being Added?
The project is adding 4-foot bike lanes across the Shem Creek bridge and will also improve lighting along the lanes and nearby sidewalks. This new setup will allow people to safely bike, walk, or drive along Coleman Boulevard, the town’s central business district.
Why Is This Important?
James Aton, the Deputy Director of Capital Projects and Transportation, emphasized the importance of this project. He said, “This is a huge connection piece for our bike network. It will help people use different types of transportation safely, whether they are residents or visitors. The ability to walk, bike, or drive safely on Coleman Boulevard is very important.”
Challenges and Delays
The project was first approved in 2016 and was given federal funds through the Transportation Alternative Program (TAP). However, working with various agencies, including the Department of Transportation, meant the design and approval process took longer than expected.
Aton explained, “It can be frustrating when something seems simple, like resurfacing, but when federal or grant funds are involved, there are more checks and reviews to go through. The agencies have been working hard to make the process faster, which helps improve safety and mobility for everyone.”
Cost and Timeline
The project is expected to cost around $1.2 million, with $865,000 coming from the TAP funds. Aton believes the project will be finished by the end of August.
While the original timeline aimed for mid-July, some last-minute adjustments to the lighting caused a slight delay. Aton explained that although the original lighting was good, they decided to make improvements to match the lighting installed as part of the Coleman Boulevard Revitalization Project.
“This is a high pedestrian traffic area, so enhancing the lighting for both cyclists and pedestrians is important for safety,” said Aton.
A Smooth Ride Ahead
Once the project is completed, cyclists will have uninterrupted bike lanes from Erckmann Drive all the way to the Ravenel Bridge, making it easier and safer to bike through this busy part of town.
