Update on Port Access

February 13, 2007: Mr. Patten is a seasoned SCDOT authority who for nine years prior to 2001 held the position of Program Director for the SCDOT. He has a Civil Engineering degree from Clemson and is a Registered Engineer. His many credentials underscore his comprehensive understanding of the Port Access issues.

In his presentation, Mr. Patten explained that there were many groups actively involved in the assessment and recommendations for access links between I-26 and the Port Authority at the former Navy base. A sample of the groups involved include the Army Corps of Engineers, SCDOT, Federal Highway Commission and the Chamber of Commerce.

One of the main issues that needed to be resolved prior to beginning operations at the proposed port facility was the ability to provide a continuous and uninterrupted road for trucks between I-26 and the port facility. One of the first official acts of the SCDOT, August, 2005, was to submit a permit application showing five potential alignments along with environmental impact statements (EIS).

A draft EIS for the proposed port and associated roadway was released for public review October 21, 2005. Alignments were evaluated and numerous public hearings were held to hear community comments and concerns and to explain how the alignments were determined. The preferred corridor and best design were discussed with emphasis on the fact that no displacement would result from the proposed alignment. The revised proposal which was submitted to the SCDOT involves the elimination of exit 218 Future traffic will either access a reconstructed exit 217 or use the access roads. This was proposed in light of the fact that this area of I-26 has several exit areas that are within a mile of one another which often causes excess congestion where traffic is entering and exiting close together. Most road designs have exit ramps at least two miles apart to reduce this type of congestion.

Currently, the Ways and Means committee has approved $138 million for completion of the construction required prior to the Port opening in 2012. However, Mr. Patten pointed out that the full General Assembly still needs to approve the budget. The total cost for the project is $282 million. When asked why the cost was so high he pointed out that average road construction is $15-20 million per mile which does not include costs pertaining to bridge structures.

Submitted by Stephanie Wilson, Keyway Committee