ORANGEBURG COUNTY, S.C. — Residents in Orangeburg County are still grappling with significant road closures as a result of flooding that occurred earlier this month. Despite some improvements, with 117 roads reopened, 62 remain closed, forcing local residents to find alternate routes and adjust their daily routines.
Jean Thurmond, a resident of Salley, discussed the ongoing challenges with navigating the area, stating, "You gotta drive safe, take your time, just do what you gotta do, get where you gotta go."
While 117 roads have reopened in Orangeburg County, many remain inaccessible, forcing locals to deal with difficult and lengthy detours.
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Maliqua Scott, who lives in the town of North, shared her frustration over the situation. She described the challenges of the increased travel time and additional costs due to the need for extra fuel.
"It takes a longer time, there's more deer on the road that we usually go on. It usually takes more by 20, 15 minutes than our usual route and more gas. So, it's really an inconvenience for us and the people in the town of North," Scott said.
Gloria Jones, a resident of Salley, frequently travels to Neeses to shop at the local Piggly Wiggly. Jones explained how the detours are making her trips more difficult. "They have detours; we see one a day, so that means we turn back around. Last week, we were going to Neeses, and we had to go to Orangeburg, come all the way back, and go to Springfield," Jones said.
The South Carolina Department of Transportation is actively working to repair the damaged roads, but residents are still facing disruptions. We reached out to SCDOT for an update on when the roads might reopen. Officials emphasized that repairs are being expedited, and they urged drivers to remain cautious and alert while traveling through affected areas. SCDOT is urging drivers to slow down and stay alert for signs and crews working in affected areas
As the recovery efforts continue, residents remain hopeful that the ongoing work will eventually return to normal.