Beaufort County Urgently Pursues Funding for U.S. 278 Project

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News Summary

Beaufort County is racing against a critical deadline to finalize a funding plan for the U.S. 278 Corridor project as rising costs and traffic congestion escalate. The county and the Town of Hilton Head are striving to secure financial backing from the South Carolina Department of Transportation, with a plan due by March 31. Rising construction costs and previous funding failures have caused significant delays, with a total budget of $298.53 million. Community concerns regarding infrastructure impacts and safety measures are also on the rise as the project deadline approaches.

Beaufort County Faces Critical Deadline to Secure Funding for U.S. 278 Corridor Project

Beaufort County is racing against an urgent deadline to finalize a funding plan for the much-anticipated U.S. 278 Corridor project, which has seen its costs balloon amid a surge in population and traffic congestion. As the population grows, the volume of traffic has surged at local intersections, prompting the county and the Town of Hilton Head to intensify their efforts to secure financial backing necessary for the project’s advancements.

Funding Plan Developments

A joint workshop held this past Wednesday provided a platform for 16 council members from both Beaufort County and Hilton Head to rally around a revised funding plan proposed by the South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT). This revised plan is reportedly designed to stay within the project’s financial constraints, albeit it has raised the eyebrow of some community members due to the exclusion of a crucial multiuse pathway.

The clock is ticking for the county, which must have a finalized funding plan ready by March 31 to avoid jeopardizing agreements with SCDOT. Should the plan be approved but later rejected by the State Infrastructure Bank, a vital funding pool of $120 million may be on the line, creating additional pressure as the deadline looms.

Cost Considerations and Delays

The journey to funding has not been smooth, as rising construction costs and a previous failed sales tax referendum have caused significant delays in the U.S. 278 Corridor project. The county’s current goal remains to keep overall project costs within the budgeted figure of $298.53 million. The new design incorporates several critical elements aimed at enhancing traffic flow, including the replacement of the operating Mackay Creek and Skull Creek bridges exclusively for eastbound traffic, while preserving the existing westbound bridges.

Part of the revised plans includes establishing a new three-lane lifeline bridge that will accommodate future expansions but will not provide direct access to Pinkney Island, frustrating some residents seeking better connectivity.

Financial Contributions and Allocations

As of now, the total funding assembled for the U.S. 278 Corridor project amounts to $298.53 million, sourced from various contributions including local commitments, state funding, and community donations. Beaufort County has pledged $101 million, with $80 million drawn from the 2018 sales tax and $21 million generated from impact fees. The Town of Hilton Head has contributed over $3 million through right-of-way donations.

SCDOT stands ready to assist, with $74.5 million already allocated, which includes a potential additional $16 million earmarked for the replacement of the Mackay Bridge. Meanwhile, more than $13.07 million has already been expended on preliminary design and community engagement efforts, and reserve funds are designated to cover any potential overruns. Should those reserve funds remain unspent, they will be redirected to local road improvement projects, offering an additional benefit to the community.

Community Impacts and Concerns

The project also involves significant operational adjustments, including the replacement of a 24-inch waterline due to compliance with State Act 36 regulations and a designated allocation of $6.5 million to cover necessary relocation costs. Should any additional relocation expenses arise beyond the funding coverage, the Public Service District will aid in managing those costs. Notably, the Stoney community is slated to receive $3.5 million toward a separate road project, though council members have voiced their concerns regarding potential infrastructure impacts in that area and the absence of a bike and pedestrian pathway.

As the project moves toward resolution, some residents have advocated for retaining critical safety measures, such as the traffic light at Windmill Harbor, to ensure that community safety remains a priority amidst the upcoming changes.

Potential Consequences of Inaction

Continuing down this path of uncertainty could lead to dire consequences, with officials implying that failure to resolve the funding issues could result in SCDOT taking over the bridge replacement project. As the deadline approaches, all eyes will be on the Beaufort County leadership to ensure that the U.S. 278 Corridor project remains a viable reality for the community.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

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Beaufort County Braces for Rare Winter Storm with Snow and Ice
Beaufort County Faces Critical Funding Crisis for U.S. 278 Project
Beaufort Council Considers Financing for U.S. 278 Corridor Project
Beaufort County Faces $190 Million Shortfall for U.S. 278 Project
Urgent Meeting Scheduled for U.S. 278 Corridor Project
Hilton Head Town Council Faces Tension Over 278 Corridor Project
Beaufort County Residents Reject Sales Tax Referendum
Hilton Head Infrastructure: New Bridge Proposal Unveiled

Additional Resources

• Island Packet: Funding for Highway 278 Project
• Wikipedia: Highway
• WTOC: Beaufort County Funding Gap
• Google Search: Beaufort County highway projects
• Your Island News: Lady’s Island Traffic Improvements
• Google Scholar: Traffic Improvements
• Post and Courier: Hilton Head Bridge Cost Shortfall
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Bridge Construction

Author: HERE Hilton Head