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Charleston Seeks Control Over Maybank Highway to Ease Traffic Congestion

Traffic congestion on Maybank Highway as improvements are discussed

News Summary

The City of Charleston is working to gain state authority over a two-mile stretch of Maybank Highway, aiming to reduce traffic congestion affecting Johns Island. The plan includes adding a new lane for vehicles exiting the island, while discussions around the highway’s improvement strategies continue amidst community feedback and funding considerations. The proposed changes are in response to rapid population growth and infrastructure demands on Johns Island, with ongoing projects aimed at enhancing road conditions.

Charleston Seeks Control Over Maybank Highway to Ease Traffic Congestion

The City of Charleston is pursuing state authority over a two-mile segment of Maybank Highway, a known traffic congestion area currently managed by the South Carolina Department of Transportation. This section, situated between River Road and the Paul Gelogotis Bridge, has become a focal point for traffic-related issues affecting daily commutes for residents of Johns Island.

If the city secures this authority, it plans to add a new lane for vehicles exiting Johns Island. Currently, Charleston County has put forth a plan to widen the highway, incorporating standard 14-foot lanes that would allow for 45 mph speed limits. However, in an effort to preserve local trees, Mayor William Cogswell has suggested an alternative construction approach, proposing to build 11-foot lanes instead.

City Councilman Jim McBride highlighted that limited access to the island plays a significant role in the traffic challenges faced. While improvements are expected, city officials acknowledge that these modifications may not address all traffic concerns but aim to offer some relief to commuters.

Community Response and Funding Concerns

The response from community members regarding these traffic improvement plans has been varied, according to Logan McVey, Chief Policy Officer of the City of Charleston. The widening proposal from Charleston County has an estimated cost of around $15 million, which does not take into account potential impacts on wetlands or tree conservation efforts.

In a positive development for funding, there is currently $78 million available from the discontinued I-526 project, which could potentially contribute to the Maybank Highway improvements.

The Traffic and Transportation Committee of the City of Charleston has already approved the request for authority over the highway, setting the stage for further discussions during the upcoming City Council meeting scheduled for June 17.

Population Growth and Infrastructure Needs

Johns Island has experienced remarkable population growth, increasing from approximately 5,200 residents in 2010 to an estimated 15,000 within city limits by 2025. The broader population of Johns Island has surged from about 15,100 in 2010 to approximately 22,900 in 2024, with projections indicating that the current population may exceed 25,000.

This increase in residents has intensified the demand for housing, resulting in new development projects such as The Sanderling, which features 56 townhomes. However, the city has been slow to upgrade infrastructure to accommodate this rapid growth, with resources being limited to just one fire station and two parks within city limits.

In response to the escalating demand, city officials are developing plans for a new fire station, a recreation center, and an elementary school to better support the residents of Johns Island. Nonetheless, concerns have arisen among community advocates like John Zlogar, who question whether future infrastructure will adequately meet the expectations of continued growth.

Future Road Projects and Optimism

Charleston County is engaged in additional road improvement projects, which include plans for flyover structures. Some of these projects have already secured funding through transportation sales tax initiatives. McBride remains hopeful that the city’s infrastructure efforts will significantly benefit the residents of Johns Island in the coming years.

As the City of Charleston works to gain authority over Maybank Highway, the aim remains clear: to alleviate the persistent traffic congestion impacting daily commuters and to better serve the growing population of Johns Island.