South Carolina Commits $200M Boost to Bridge Program

The South Carolina Department of Transportation Commission (SCDOT) has approved a major update to the state’s bridge program, directing an additional $200 million toward bridge improvements following funding from the general assembly.

The approved 2025 bridge project list outlines priorities SCDOT plans to pursue in coming years as funding becomes available. With this new allocation, South Carolina’s bridge program totals $439 million for the year—up from $239 million.

“Thanks to the leadership of Governor McMaster and the General Assembly, SCDOT is expediting progress and restoring even more bridges in our state,” said Justin P. Powell, secretary of Transportation, in a statement. “Our team is already hard at work putting this money to use to help people and goods move through South Carolina.”

SCDOT’s 10-year strategic plan initially aimed to improve 530 bridges. So far, construction is underway or complete on 416. The additional funding will accelerate progress and allow the agency to move beyond its original goal.

“The money SCDOT is receiving will allow crews to continue to push toward our goal of 530 bridges in 10 years,” said T.J. Johnson, SCDOT Commission chair, in a statement.

Of the 119 bridges included in the 2025 allocation, 109 are already underway—with more than 90% in the preliminary engineering or construction phases.

SCDOT is now seeking public comment on amendments to the Statewide Transportation Improvement Program to include the new bridge projects. Comments will be accepted through Aug. 7.

Source: South Carolina Department of Transportation, WPDE.com