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SCDOT Seeks Public Input for Pedestrian Safety Improvements in Orangeburg County

  //travel-leisure.news-articles.net/content/2026/ .. an-safety-improvements-in-orangeburg-county.html
  Published in Travel and Leisure on Sunday, March 1st 2026 at 5:51 GMT by WRDW
      Locale: South Carolina, UNITED STATES

ORANGEBURG, S.C. - March 1, 2026 - The South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT) is actively soliciting public feedback on a crucial project designed to significantly improve pedestrian safety and accessibility along a key stretch of U.S. 1/S.R. 2 between Bowman and Elloree in Orangeburg County. The initiative underscores SCDOT's ongoing commitment to creating a safer transportation network for all users, not just motorists.

This isn't merely a cosmetic upgrade; it's a strategic response to a growing need for improved pedestrian infrastructure in a rapidly developing corridor. While the original announcement highlighted the need for feedback, the scope of the potential improvements extends far beyond simple adjustments. SCDOT is evaluating a range of possibilities, including new sidewalks, dedicated crosswalks with enhanced visibility (potentially incorporating flashing beacons and pedestrian-activated signals), curb extensions to shorten crossing distances, and improved lighting.

According to preliminary data from SCDOT's traffic analysis division, pedestrian incidents along this section of U.S. 1 have increased by 15% over the past three years. While no fatalities have been reported recently, numerous near-misses have prompted local residents and community leaders to advocate for immediate action. The current infrastructure, largely designed decades ago with a primary focus on vehicular traffic, presents significant challenges for pedestrians, particularly those with mobility impairments, families with young children, and elderly individuals.

The project area, spanning approximately six miles between Bowman and Elloree, encompasses residential neighborhoods, small businesses, and several community hubs, including the Orangeburg-Calhoun Technical College's campus in Bowman. The lack of safe pedestrian crossings forces many to walk along the shoulder of a busy highway, a demonstrably dangerous situation. The proposed improvements aim to create a more walkable and bikeable corridor, promoting healthier lifestyles and reducing reliance on personal vehicles for short-distance travel.

SCDOT is taking a multi-pronged approach to gather public input. An online survey, accessible at [ www.scdot.org/public-comment ], allows residents to share their concerns, suggestions, and personal experiences related to pedestrian safety in the project area. The survey asks specific questions about frequently used crossings, perceived hazards, and preferred types of improvements. The survey is open until November 15th, providing ample time for community members to participate.

In addition to the online survey, a public hearing is scheduled for November 7th at 6:00 p.m. at the Orangeburg County Administrative Building. This in-person event will provide a platform for direct dialogue between SCDOT officials and the public. Attendees will have the opportunity to view preliminary project designs, ask questions, and voice their opinions. SCDOT representatives will be available to address individual concerns and explain the rationale behind various design choices.

David Knestrick, SCDOT Project Manager, can be contacted at 803-774-5923 for further information. He emphasized the importance of community involvement in shaping the final project design. "We want to ensure that these improvements truly reflect the needs and priorities of the people who use this corridor every day," Knestrick stated. "Public input is invaluable to our process."

Beyond the immediate benefits to pedestrian safety, the project has the potential to stimulate economic growth in the area. Improved walkability can attract businesses and encourage tourism, creating a more vibrant and attractive community. Furthermore, investing in pedestrian infrastructure aligns with broader state and national goals related to sustainability and reducing carbon emissions.

The project's timeline currently anticipates preliminary design completion by early 2027, with construction potentially commencing in the summer of 2027. Funding for the project is being allocated from a combination of state and federal sources, including funds designated for pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure improvements.