NORTH CHARLESTON, S.C. — North Charleston is considering a study for proposed railroad overpasses at two busy crossings as part of its transportation sales tax project. The study will focus on the areas of Azalea Drive and Stromboli Avenue, as well as Virginia Avenue and Noisette Boulevard.
The total estimated cost for the study is around $5 million. The aim is to evaluate the current train traffic and determine whether a railroad overpass is a viable solution.
City’s Growing Concern Over Train Traffic
North Charleston, founded on industrial growth, has always coexisted with trains. However, as the city continues to grow and port operations increase, there is concern about the negative impact of train traffic.
Adam MacConnell, North Charleston’s Director of Special Projects, explains that as port and rail operations expand in the next decade, the impact of trains will likely increase significantly.
“Trains have always been a part of our community, but we anticipate more disruption as the port grows,” MacConnell said.
Why Is This Study Important?
The study comes at a time when North Charleston’s transportation needs are expected to become more urgent. The Navy Base Intermodal Facility, operated by the State Ports Authority, is set to start functioning at full capacity, and the former paper mill has been purchased to increase the terminal size. These developments will lead to more freight traffic in the area.
Both local and county officials believe that the study will help address these challenges proactively, defining traffic issues and identifying the best solutions.
What Are the Potential Solutions?
Eric Adams, the Public Works Director for Charleston County, emphasized the importance of fully understanding the issues before rushing to a solution. He stated, “It’s crucial to explore all alternatives before making decisions, ensuring the chosen solution meets the community’s needs without causing new problems.”
One potential solution is building overpasses at two crossings:
- Azalea Avenue and Stromboli Avenue: This overpass would reduce the impact of road closures caused by trains, especially for residents in the area. It would help prevent isolation caused by train traffic, especially with the new multimodal container yard.
- Virginia Avenue and Noisette Boulevard: This overpass would address future rail issues related to the Navy Yard intermodal facility and support the redevelopment of the former base into a mixed-use downtown with waterfront access.
Concerns from Residents
While city officials see these overpasses as a necessary step forward, some residents have expressed concerns about the potential negative impacts of such projects.
Some worry that overpasses could worsen safety and traffic issues. In response, MacConnell assures that the city is committed to gathering public feedback to address these concerns properly.
“We understand that the community has concerns, and we will include public input in the decision-making process to find the best solution,” MacConnell said.
Next Public Listening Session
To discuss these concerns and provide updates on the project, North Charleston will host a public listening session. It will take place on Monday at 6:30 p.m. at the Park Circle Community Center, located at 4800 Park Circle in North Charleston.
