BEAUFORT, S.C. (Oct. 28, 2024) – The U.S. Coast Guard has proposed permanent changes to the operation of the Woods Memorial Bridge that would allow the swing bridge to remain open to vehicle traffic during morning and afternoon drive times. The Coast Guard is inviting public feedback on this proposed change.
The Woods Memorial Bridge connects downtown Beaufort to Lady’s Island and has significant daily traffic.
This proposal follows a temporary modified schedule with these same drive-time provisions that began on March 25 earlier this year, and is continuing at least through Nov. 30.
Under this proposal, from 6 a.m. to 9:29 a.m. and 3:31 p.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday, the swing bridge would not open to boat traffic except for emergencies, and other exceptions granted by regulations. This would allow for easier traffic flow during these times.
From 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., the draw can open once an hour on the half-hour for boat traffic as needed. At all other times, the draw will open on signal.
“I thank the Coast Guard for moving this study forward and appreciate the collaboration of all levels of government working on our historic swing bridge opening schedule,” said State Rep. Shannon Erikson, who worked closely with the City of Beaufort and Beaufort County to make this happen. “I look forward to a robust round of public comment from our community and others so that the best outcomes can be derived.”
To provide feedback:
The Coast Guard is asking for comments on this rule change in the Federal Register. The public is invited to comment at https://www.regulations.gov. Type USCG-2024-0198 in the search box and click “Search.” Next, look for this document in the Search Results column, and click on it. Then click on the Comment option. The Coast Guard is encouraging all public comment to be made by Dec. 9, 2024.
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