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Here's what you need to know about traffic construction around Chapin

SCDOT tells News 19 this part of the traffic construction should take about a month.

CHAPIN, S.C. — There's a lot of construction activity when it comes to the roads to and from I-26 in Chapin this week.     

The SC Department of Transportation (SCDOT) tells News 19 there are daytime and nighttime traffic detours for bridge demolition in this area of Chapin.

It's all a part of the ongoing Midlands Connection Project, a 16-mile stretch of interstate improvements between Exit 85 in Little Mountain and Exit 101 in Irmo. 

SCDOT explains they are working to improve the highway network, targeting critical traffic pinch points to eliminate congested cars.

In this case, Exit 91 is the primary and most heavily-used entrance to Chapin. 

"Those changes did come about rather abruptly, and they're pretty big changes. The new bridge being implemented is a big deal for our town, a big deal for this area," Thomas Griffin, Chapin police chief, said.

Chief Griffin tells News 19 the Chapin Police Department made a video of the detours to help educate drivers and visitors.

☀️Good Afternoon Chapin! This will be the last video of the day 🤞. This video is explains the new traffic pattern coming FROM Spring Hill High School heading into the Town of Chapin, South Carolina. 👉You now only have two options at the 4-way stop. You can take a right to Dan Comalander Drive or continue straight towards the NEW overpass. If you continue straight you have a few options, take a right to go I-26 Westbound towards Little Mountain, South Carolina, or continue straight over the new bridge. ⬆️ Continue straight through the light to head towards Chapin High School and Downtown Town of Chapin, South Carolina ⬅️ If you are needing to get on I-26 Eastbound towards City of Columbia SC you need to get in the left hand lane after passing over the new bridge and turn left directing you onto I-26 Eastbound. 🗣️ The area of road with all of the restaurants and businesses (Old Columbia Ave) is a two lane road, so you are still able to access those establishments. Drive safe y’all!

Posted by Chapin Police Department on Monday, July 17, 2023

He explains that even his officers are getting familiar with the changes, so they're ready to respond to emergencies in this area.

"Each officer that has been on shift since the change has taken it upon themselves to go up there, make themselves familiar with the businesses, how to access them as such, even when it comes to getting on the interstate and off the interstate," Griffin said.

SCDOT tells News 19 that the bridge demolition work is expected to last till the end of the month. 

They add that the new I-26 interchange is expected to be completed early next year.

According to SCDOT, you can keep up to date with what's happening by clicking here.

    

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