Chapin, South Carolina, August 15, 2025

News Summary

Residents in Chapin, South Carolina are expressing their frustration over the hazardous condition of Dreher Island Road, a crucial route to Dreher Island State Park. With numerous potholes, uneven surfaces, and low visibility, locals are pushing for immediate repairs to ensure traveler safety. The South Carolina Department of Transportation has acknowledged the need for improvements and plans to begin the bidding process for renovations in September. Safety concerns are further emphasized by reports of crashes and injuries on the road.

Chapin, SC Residents Call for Immediate Repairs on Hazardous Dreher Island Road

Residents of Chapin, South Carolina, are voicing intense frustration over the ongoing poor conditions of Dreher Island Road, a vital five-mile route leading to the popular Dreher Island State Park. Locals have described the road as both dangerous and embarrassing, citing its long-term neglect as a significant concern that compromises traveler safety.

Among those advocating for change is Bobby Dwiggins, a Chapin local since 1989, who is particularly vocal about the road’s deteriorating state. He highlighted the need for resurfacing due to numerous potholes, uneven patching, and low visibility, especially around a curve near St. Peter’s Lutheran Church. Another resident, Joe Stoudemire, likened the experience of driving on Dreher Island Road to riding in a “two-horse wagon,” emphasizing the uncomfortable and precarious nature of the journey.

This crucial roadway connects the rural community to one of the state’s most frequented outdoor destinations. During peak season, the road sees heavy traffic from RVs, cement trucks, and numerous out-of-state visitors, thereby exacerbating its already problematic condition. Locals argue that insufficient maintenance reflects poorly on South Carolina’s road infrastructure and dissuades potential visitors.

Data from the South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT) reveals that there have been 44 requests for pothole patches along Dreher Island Road over the past two years. Some residents are surprised that the number of requests for repairs is not higher, as they contend that “patchwork is not the answer.” They assert that the sequence of temporary fixes is insufficient for dealing with the systemic issues affecting the roadway.

In response to the complaints, SCDOT has publicly announced plans for road improvements in partnership with the Lexington County Transportation Committee. The bidding process for the renovation project is set to begin in September, after which a clearer timeline for the necessary resurfacing will be established.

Safety concerns have also been underscored by data from the South Carolina Department of Public Safety, which reported 34 crashes and 12 injuries on Dreher Island Road in the last five years. Given this alarming record, residents are amplifying their calls for immediate action to enhance road safety.

For those experiencing dangerous road conditions, residents are encouraged to report issues directly to local authorities by contacting the appropriate channels.

Background Context

Dreher Island Road serves as a critical connector for residents in Chapin, leading to Dreher Island State Park—a popular destination for outdoor activities. Continuous use by large vehicles and visitor traffic has exacerbated the road’s poor condition, shedding light on the necessity for comprehensive repair and maintenance efforts.

Key Statistics

• Length of Dreher Island Road: 5 miles
• Reported crashes in the last five years: 34
• Reported injuries in the last five years: 12
• Pothole patch requests: 44 in two years

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Additional Resources

• WIS TV: Locals Push for Action on Dreher Island Road
• Dignity Memorial: Carroll Frick Obituary
• Barr-Price Funeral Home: Joy Mann Obituary
• Google Search: Dreher Island Road Chapin SC
• Wikipedia: Dreher Island State Park

Author: STAFF HERE Chapin

CHAPIN STAFF WRITER The CHAPIN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREchapin.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Chapin, Lexington County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Chapin Christmas Parade, Fourth of July Celebration, and the Chapin Fall Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Chapin Chamber of Commerce and the Lexington School District One, plus leading businesses in retail and recreation that power the local economy such as Lake Murray Tourism and the Chapin Visitor Information. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREaiken.com, HEREbeaufort.com, HEREchapin.com, HEREcharleston.com, HEREclinton.com, HEREcolumbia.com, HEREgeorgetown.com, HEREgreenwood.com, HEREgreenville.com, HEREhiltonhead.com, HEREirmo.com, HEREmyrtlebeach.com, HEREnewberry.com, HERErockhill.com, HEREspartanburg.com, HEREaustin.com, HEREcollegestation.com, HEREdallas.com, HEREhouston.com, and HEREsanantonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.