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Work to repair roads from Tropical Storm damage continuing

The SCDOT and county authorities are working to repair and reopen roads that suffered damages both from this weeks Tropical Storms and previous flooding damages.

The SCDOT is working on repairing around 150 roads, and has already reopened 163 that suffered from storm-related issues from Tropical Storm Debby.

Meanwhile, roads maintained by Richland County have also suffered from the storms, says county Public Works Director Mike Maloney. 

The county had around 25 fallen trees, that have since been cleared, and a few washouts that have been repaired and reopened.

"We have known hotspots that are prone to flash flooding so those are the ones we are going out to kind of clearing those pipes and drainage ways in preparation," Maloney said. "Doesn't always cure it completely when you have that much water but we know where they are."

He says most storm related damages to roads come from clogged pipes from the storm runoff. 

"They come in with equipment—light excavation equipment that can get in there. They’re usually traveling in the water because the road is flooded and working with their memory of where that pipe was—and clearing out the debris," said Maloney.

Roads also suffered damage from similar damage before the storm, as rain caused flash flooding last Saturday, closing down a section of Killian Road for repairs. Almost a week later, it's still closed while crews could be seen working on the site.

In a statement, the SCDOT said "crews are working today to clean the area and deliver needed materials to the site, and identify utility facilities adjacent to the road." They added that they aren't able to make a full assessment while water is flowing through the site, but that it is one of the Department's top priorities.

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