Fort Mill Moves Forward with $2 Million Traffic Improvement Initiative at Carowinds Interchange

Fort Mill Officials Plan $2 Million Traffic Improvement Project

Fort Mill, SC – Governor Henry McMaster plans to seek $2 million from state legislators for a crucial traffic study aimed at enhancing the interchange at Exit 90, the exit for Carowinds, as well as improving traffic flow on the busy stretch of Interstate 77. This announcement came during a press conference at Carowinds on Thursday morning, a popular amusement park located just south of the North Carolina and South Carolina border.

The proposed funds will be allocated for a feasibility study to develop a clearer understanding of what improvements are necessary at this crucial interchange. This construction and improvement project is essential for ensuring smoother traffic, particularly in an area that experiences some of the highest vehicle counts in the state.

Key Details of the Project

McMaster indicated that the request for funding will be included in his upcoming state budget proposal anticipated for release next month. Although specific details regarding the anticipated improvements and their timeline are still unclear, state and local officials assert that the study will lay the groundwork needed for future funding opportunities through grants and other financial sources.

Justin Powell, the state Transportation Secretary, stated, “It provides the foundation to start.” The urgency of this project is underscored by the traffic patterns observed at Exit 90, which sits strategically between Fort Mill and Charlotte, North Carolina.

Background of Current Funding Challenges

Despite the pressing need for improvements, York County is currently navigating complexities regarding funding allocation. In recent years, the county successfully secured funding from the South Carolina Transportation Infrastructure Bank for several interchange projects. This funding model, however, typically covers only a portion of the project costs, a drawback as construction expenses have surged in recent years.

To adapt to the rising costs, York County officials initiated a request to reallocate Carowinds Boulevard funds to the ongoing improvements at Exit 82, which connects Cherry and Celanese roads. The county is currently awaiting feedback on this funding swap, which could take several months.

Traffic Statistics and Growth

The traffic data highlights the importance of addressing the issues at the Carowinds interchange. According to the South Carolina Department of Transportation, an average of 171,200 vehicles traverses the interstate daily at this location, marking it as the busiest road in the state. This figure increased by approximately 8,100 vehicle trips from 2021 to 2022, contributing to more than a 25% growth in traffic over the last decade.

As Fort Mill continues to grow, especially with developments near Carowinds, county officials believe that efficient transportation infrastructure is critical for both local residents and visitors. Christi Cox, the York County Council chairwoman, acknowledged, “Our border with North Carolina is a vital gateway,” emphasizing the necessity for enhanced road networks.

Next Steps in Development

The upcoming study, which requires approval as part of the state budget, may take a couple of years to complete. The details of the study will focus mainly on vehicle and freight traffic while public transit options will not be included at this stage.

Both the state and local officials are aware that developing these infrastructures is not just about improving traffic flow, but also about ensuring the safety of the countless visitors to Carowinds each year, which is fundamental for the tourism sector. Former Carowinds manager Pat Jones remarked on the necessity of organized traffic, noting that “ensuring they arrive safely is a priority.”

The potential changes and improvements to the Carowinds interchange are part of a broader effort to accommodate the rapid growth in the Fort Mill area while maintaining safety and accessibility for its residents. As Governor McMaster put it, “If there’s any place that needs traffic moving, it’s here.”