And So it Begins …

The first phase of construction of the Ashley River Bridge bike and pedestrian lane began last Friday.
Charleston County spokesperson Shawn Smetana said earlier that day that construction of the first phase, enhancements to the new dedicated left turn lane onto Lockwood Boulevard, would take 45 days, weather permitting.
Smetana consistently referred to the “test lane,” as the contentious project has many in the community excited it will usher in increased use of in car-travel, while others worry it will snarl morning traffic as commuters try to enter the peninsula, especially in the morning.
There will be several potentially sticky issues during the first phase, including shoulder closings, and even lane closings at night.
Drivers are asked to be aware of the ongoing work, and to use caution when approaching construction or workers.
Phase two, constructing the actual “test lane” will commence once the enhancements to the intersection are completed, said Smetana.
Consultants working for Charleston County, in coordination with the South Carolina Department of Transportation staff, have conducted studies to develop a the plan. In 2007 Atlantic South Consulting Services in cooperation with Dennis Corporation conducted a feasibility study, which identified alternative routes for the West Ashley approach alignment to the bridge. At that time, it was envisioned that a cantilevered shared use structure could be retrofit onto the existing Ashley River Bridge structure providing a separated path to the peninsula.
The goal of the Ashley River Bridge Retrofit project is to provide bicycle and pedestrian access between West Ashley and the Charleston peninsula. It involves the retrofit of the northbound US 17 Ashley River Bridge to provide a dedicated shared use lane that would represent a major extension of the West Ashley Greenway. The project has been a hot button issue and has met quite a bit of resistance from residence who fear it will slow down rush hour commutes even more.
For more information, including an animation of the projects, go to: roads.charlestoncounty.org/projects/ashley_river_bridge