From staff reports
As mentioned by the Beaufort Regional Chamber of Commerce in it’s weekly newsletter, the S.C. Department of Transportation’s (SCDOT) Harbor River Bridge project has won a 2022 America’s Transportation Award, sponsored by the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials.
The $70 million project won in the innovative technology category for the ability to keep the road open throughout construction of the new 3,353 foot span.
Here’s the award entry as it reads at https://americastransportationawards.org/:
South Carolina Department of Transportation—U.S. 21 over Harbor River Bridge Replacement Project
“For over 80 years, the U.S. 21 Harbor River Bridge was the only way thousands of residents, workers and tourists could access a string of three barrier islands on the South Carolina coast. Unfortunately, the low swing-span bridge was deteriorating and sometimes would not close, stranding motorists for hours.
“As a result, SCDOT created a design-build delivery plan that kept traffic moving throughout construction by using barges to create an access road across the salt marsh and open water.
“In addition, SCDOT completed a robust assessment to ensure the project included participation in SCDOT’s Disadvantaged Business Enterprises Program. The new $70 million Harbor Island Bridge is a high-level crossing, so vessels can now pass under the bridge without interruption.”
