News Summary
Columbia’s U.S. 378 bridge project is nearing completion, promising relief for commuters frustrated by construction delays. With the bridge’s structure complete, final tasks include paving and guardrail installations, aiming for a westbound opening by March 2024. While lane closures will persist until summer 2025, the project signifies improved traffic flow and a potential end to the chaos faced by drivers between Columbia and Sumter. Commuters remain hopeful for a smoother journey ahead.
Columbia Commuters to Get Relief as U.S. 378 Bridge Project Nears Completion
Good news for those who travel between Columbia and Sumter! If you’re one of the many who dread the stop-and-go traffic at the U.S. 378 bridge over the picturesque Wateree River, you might be cleaning out your car mats soon. According to the South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT), the long-anticipated bridge project is making significant strides towards completion.
A Journey Through Time
The saga of the U.S. 378 bridge began in 2021, when right-of-way clearing kicked off the whole endeavor. Fast forward to 2022, and construction was officially underway. This project is designed to upgrade the aging bridge, ensuring it meets modern standards and can accommodate the bustling traffic that flows through this crucial route.
In a move to alleviate some congestion, SCDOT reopened the eastbound bridge in 2022 while crews got busy with demolishing the westbound bridge that carries traffic toward Columbia. Now, commuters are left with memories of what once was, as they navigate through construction zones that seem to stretch on indefinitely.
The Home Stretch
According to the latest updates from SCDOT, the structure of the bridge is now complete and things are really in the final phases. What’s left? Just a few finishing touches! The final tasks include completing the bridge deck, paving the approaches for a smooth drive, and the all-important installation of guardrails and pavement markings. This is where we all breathe a collective sigh of relief as we envision clearer traffic ahead!
Frustration on the Road
Looking Ahead to March 2024
Commuters’ Optimism
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Richland Source: Upcoming Road Closures
- WLTX: Temporary Detours of I-20
- Mansfield News Journal: ODOT Announces Highway Repairs
- The State: Local News on Construction
- Google Search: Columbia Commuters Construction News
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.
