North Carolina Construction News staff writer
Construction is underway on the Ashley River Crossing, a standalone bridge that will provide a safe connection for bicyclists and pedestrians traveling between West Ashley and downtown Charleston, S.C.
When the $74-million project is completed, the historic, bob-tail swing bridge will connect to the 8.5-mile West Ashley Greenway, serving as a missing link for the East Coast Greenway that connects Florida to Maine.
Also, construction includes intersection improvements on Lockwood Boulevard, the Greenway at Folly Road Boulevard and Wesley Drive, and Wappoo Road and is expected to reach substantial completion in 2027.
Funding came from a USDOT 2019 BUILD Grant, USDOT Federal Highway Administration Surface Transportation Block Grant, USDOT Transportation Alternative Program funds, SCDOT Highway Funds, and contributions from the city of Charleston, Charleston County, the Berkeley-Charleston-Dorchester Council of Governments and the Medical University of South Carolina.
“This morning’s groundbreaking is a powerful example of what we can accomplish when we work together,” said Charleston Mayor John Tecklenburg. “We’re closer than ever to providing a safe connection across the Ashley River and it wouldn’t have been possible without the steadfast support of our federal, state, county and local partners.
“This historic project will transform how we move throughout the region, and I look forward to continuing to work alongside stakeholders at all levels to make it happen.”