Columbia’s Malfunction Junction Project Aims to Alleviate Traffic Woes
Completion of Phase 1 Set for October
Columbia, South Carolina, has been buzzing with activity as the much-anticipated repairs on the infamous Malfunction Junction are finally showing signs of progress. It may feel like construction has dragged on for ages, but good news is on the horizon! The first phase of the Carolina Crossroads project is set to be completed by October 14, according to Brian Klauk, the project director from the South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT). This phase focuses on the interchange between Interstate 26 and Interstate 126 and aims to significantly ease traffic congestion.
What to Expect with Phase 1
The improvements on the interchange will finally bring relief to frustrated drivers who have been dealing with this notorious traffic hotspot. Klauk mentioned that the average driver could save a whopping 122 hours a year by avoiding the traffic jams that have given this junction its less-than-glamorous name. Imagine being able to deliver freight or drive to the beach or mountains much quicker—sounds great, right?
Progress has already been made in Phase 1, which has included extending the exit ramp from I-26 to Sunset Boulevard and building a new bridge on Colonial Life Boulevard. Plus, there are newly connected routes from Colonial Life to both interstates. The latest developments were expected to be wrapped up by Thursday morning this week.
Innovative Traffic Designs Ahead
One of the most exciting features of this project is the upcoming diverging diamond interchange at Colonial Life Boulevard. This unique design will allow traffic to cross over at signals, eliminating the wait for left turns, ultimately streamlining the flow of vehicles. It’s like a traffic dance intended to keep everyone moving smoothly!
However, not everything will remain the same. The ramps connecting Bush River Road to I-26 have been permanently closed due to their positioning between two major interchanges, which has caused increased congestion and safety concerns. Klauk advised drivers to utilize the Colonial Life exit or the Bush River connection to I-20 instead.
What’s Next?
As they wrap up Phase 1, teams are also hard at work on Phase 2, which will enhance the connection between Broad River Road and I-20. This involves constructing two new overpasses that are slated for completion in the coming year. The gap created by the former bridge will be filled with two new overpasses allowing traffic to flow more freely.
But wait, there’s more! In the longer term, crews will tackle Phase 3, which involves major revamps of the I-20 and I-26 interchanges. This alone represents half of the total budget for the $2 billion Crossroads project. For those counting, this phase is expected to be broken down into five mini-phases over the next six years, targeting various stretches of interstate to optimize traffic flow.
A Shared Future with New Bridges
Utility relocations and demolitions of affected buildings are already underway, with crews recently awarded the task to clear 170 acres alongside the project. This clearing is set to kick off later this year and wrap up next year, bringing further changes to the interstates.
In 2025 and 2026, I-20 will see significant widening between Bush River Road and Sunset Boulevard. Notably, a new bridge will replace the one over the Saluda River, designed to withstand flooding similar to what the area experienced back in 2015.
The Future Looks Bright
Looking even further ahead, exciting changes are planned for I-126 as the final improvements on this project wind down. By 2026, there will be extensive work on the interchange heading into downtown Columbia and along I-26 toward Charleston, including a hefty amount of bridge work.
Finally, by 2029, the project will wrap up with the completion of the cloverleaf interchange between I-20 and I-26. No more hurried lane changes or chaotic driving—just a smoother travel experience as folks journey across the Palmetto State.
So whether you’re commuting to work or heading out for a weekend getaway, these improvements promise that getting stuck at Malfunction Junction will soon be a thing of the past!
