Hilton Head Town Council’s Crucial Vote on Bridge Project

News Summary

The Hilton Head Town Council is poised to make a significant decision regarding a $300 million bridge project that could alter the town’s infrastructure for decades to come. The upcoming vote raises essential access concerns, particularly the impact on driver access to Pinckney Island. Discussions have emerged about funding and alternative designs as the council seeks to balance infrastructure needs with the rising traffic and safety issues. With significant state and county financial support on the line, this decision is crucial for Hilton Head’s future.

Hilton Head Town Council Faces Pivotal Decision on $300 Million Bridge Project Amid Access Concerns

Hilton Head officials are preparing for a significant vote that could reshape the town’s infrastructure over the next four decades. The Hilton Head Town Council is scheduled to decide on a joint resolution with Beaufort County regarding a new bridge project.

As of now, council members remain largely undecided ahead of the vote expected on Tuesday.

Access Concerns Raised

Key concerns involve changes to driver access to Pinckney Island from Bluffton:

• If the new eastbound bridge is built, drivers will lose the ability to turn right into the public boat landing dock for the ferry to Daufuskie Island.
• Drivers will instead need to travel an additional mile past Pinckney to Windmill Harbor to turn around.
• These changes are anticipated to raise traffic and safety issues, according to council members, including Ward 3’s Steve DeSimone.

Political and Design Discussions

State Senator Tom Davis has voiced concerns about the loss of east-bound access to Pinckney Island. He consulted with the South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT) on possible alternative designs.

SCDOT Secretary Justin Powell recommended a “design build” approach that could restore two-way access to Pinckney Island.

Project Funding and Scope

The bridge project is estimated to cost nearly $300 million:

• The city’s vote is critical to securing a $120 million grant from the State Infrastructure Bank, accounting for about 40% of project funding.
• Beaufort County plans to contribute $101 million to the project, while Hilton Head’s share is valued at $3.35 million in land rather than cash.
• The project aims to replace four existing bridges with a single six-lane bridge.

However, the ongoing U.S. 278 Corridor Project, estimated at $488 million, also faces challenges. This project seeks to address structural issues with the Mackay Creek bridge, which received a “poor” rating in its last inspection but is still considered safe for use.

Future Considerations

Concerns are growing regarding a projected funding shortfall of $190 million for the corridor project and its potential impact on local traffic and the economy. County officials are exploring other funding options after a recent 1% sales tax referendum, aimed at addressing infrastructure needs, was rejected by 55% of voters.

A planning workshop indicated the importance of the upcoming vote, with a lack of clear support among council members as Monday approached.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Major Bridge Project Set to Transform Hilton Head Island Access
Chatham County Develops Plan for Railroad Crossings
Hilton Head’s U.S. 278 Corridor Project Faces Funding Challenges
Historic SS United States Sets Sail on Final Journey
Thomas Ravenel Withdraws from Governor Race in South Carolina
Beaufort Council Considers Financing for U.S. 278 Corridor Project
Urgent Meeting Scheduled for U.S. 278 Corridor Project
Beaufort County Braces for Significant Winter Weather
PHENOGY AG Establishes U.S. Headquarters in Columbia, SC
Winter Weather Disrupts Daily Life in Beaufort and Jasper Counties

Additional Resources

• Island Packet: Hilton Head Town Council Faces Pivotal Decision on $300 Million Bridge Project
• Wikipedia: Hilton Head Island
• WTOC: Hilton Head Highway 278 Project Approved
• Google Search: Hilton Head Bridge Project
• Post and Courier: Hilton Head Bridge Project Plan
• Google Scholar: Hilton Head Infrastructure
• Island Packet: Political and Design Discussions on Hilton Head Bridge
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Infrastructure
• Post and Courier: Hilton Head Bridge Project Money Shortfall
• Google News: Hilton Head Bridge Funding