The partial demolition of the High Road Bridge in South Carolina has significantly disrupted local transportation and community connectivity. This incident is part of a broader pattern of infrastructure challenges facing the state, particularly in the wake of severe weather events.
Incident Overview
In December 2023, the Old Cemetery Road bridge in McClellanville was washed out due to heavy rains, isolating approximately 100 residents in the Silver Hill community. The Charleston County Sheriff’s Office and the South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT) responded promptly, initiating inspections and developing plans for temporary access and expedited repairs.
Broader Infrastructure Challenges
The McClellanville bridge incident is not isolated. Following hurricanes Helene and Debby, SCDOT identified ten bridges across South Carolina for emergency replacement due to storm damage. These bridges, located in counties such as Greenville, Greenwood, Jasper, Oconee, Spartanburg, and York, were deemed unsafe and closed, with construction expected to begin in winter 2025 and last around eight months.
Additionally, routine inspections have led to the closure of other bridges, such as the one on Cannons Campground Road in Spartanburg County, which was deemed unsafe for travel and will remain closed until repairs are comple
ted.
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