COLUMBIA, S.C. — The South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT) is nearing completion on Phases 1 and 2 of its project to reconfigure a corridor known as Malfunction Junction, where several interstates cross in Columbia.
Known as the Carolina Crossroads, the highway improvement project is slated to cost $2 billion dollars over several phases. Phase 1 and 2 are already underway and are set to wrap up in the coming months, with construction for Phase 3B scheduled to begin in early 2025, according to Hannah Robinson, a spokesperson for the SCDOT.
"The construction is constant," said Chase Evans, who lives near Bush River Road, where the SCDOT just closed one exit ramp permanently as one step towards the change in traffic patterns. "Occasionally, like, even at night, there'd be traffic because they're closing the lane, because they're working on getting it done."
In Phase 1, three new ramps at the I-26/126 interchange near Colonial Life Boulevard are now open, while three older ramps at Bush River Road have been permanently closed. Crews are expected to complete final paving and markings this spring.
Phase 2 included the opening of a new bridge connecting Broad River Road to I-20 westbound. Work continues on a second Broad River Road bridge, with girders set to be installed by the end of December.
With both of those phases nearing completion, drivers say they're anticipating not just the end of the construction, but the final result of the traffic those two phases will bring.
"It has caused a lot of [cars being] backed up with traffic," said Demonta Brooks. "It's just like, it's kind of hectic right now... I definitely am ready to see what it has in store."
Phase 3B will begin with clearing land to prepare for utility relocations and new frontage roads. This activity is expected to get underway early next year. Phase 3 is broken down into further phases, 3C, 3D, and 3E.
SCDOT is reminding drivers to slow down and stay alert in work zones.
To stay updated on traffic conditions and plan commutes, drivers are encouraged to use the 511 SC app or visit 511sc.org.