Rock Hill Faces Major Decision on Traffic Relief Options

Rock Hill Faces Major Decision on Traffic Relief Options

Rock Hill, South Carolina, is at a crossroads as local officials weigh two significant options to improve traffic flow where Interstate 77 intersects with Cherry and Celanese roads. This decision revolves around how best to alleviate congestion at one of the area’s busiest spots, particularly during morning and afternoon rush hours.

What Are the Options?

The South Carolina Department of Transportation has narrowed down the alternatives to two main configurations. Both proposals aim to relieve traffic but come with vastly different financial implications. One option, which involves a dual-lane loop, would allow two lanes of traffic to merge onto Interstate 77 northbound. Additionally, a southbound exit would facilitate a direct flow onto Celanese Road without requiring a stop. This option is estimated to cost between $96 million and $116 million.

On the other hand, the second proposal is a more ambitious plan featuring two flyover bridges. This design would carry traffic over the interstate and over Celanese Road, thereby reducing the number of traffic signals at the interchange. However, the estimated cost for this option ranges from $173 million to $193 million. The flyover option would also require 9.8 acres of land, significantly more than the 2.4 acres needed for the dual-lane loop. Upgrading to the flyover setup would necessitate the relocation of several businesses in the area.

When Will a Decision Be Made?

A decision on the preferred option was postponed during a meeting of the Rock Hill-Fort Mill Area Transportation Study policy committee on Friday. Local mayors and council members plan to revisit this issue in January. They aim to make a recommendation to the Federal Highways Administration for review, crucial for advancing the project.

Why Is This a Complex Decision?

While the dual-lane loop appears to be the more cost-effective choice, officials aren’t ready to dismiss the flyover option. “Overall, the traffic results are comparable,” stated senior project manager Andrew Fisher from the infrastructure firm STV. Still, officials like Rock Hill Mayor John Gettys question whether the cheaper option is truly the best long-term solution.

Gettys pointed out that if the anticipated growth continues in the region, the cheaper dual-lane loop might become inadequate in the future. “In 2050, what’s the next incremental step?” he asked during discussions. He noted that recent developments in the area and rising vertical construction are likely to add to the traffic demand.

The Bigger Picture

Tega Cay Mayor Chris Gray raised concerns as well, emphasizing that while improvements at the interchange are essential, the surrounding road network also needs attention. He mentioned that traffic signals near interchanges could negate the benefits of upgraded roads. Gray highlighted potential alternative solutions, such as removing traffic signals at key intersections to allow for better traffic flow.

External Factors Influencing the Decision

As local officials deliberate, it’s essential to consider external influences, particularly the growing populations in nearby York and Clover. Both towns are poised for rapid development and will undoubtedly impact traffic patterns in the region. “They’re not in this room, but they’re going to have a dramatic effect on the traffic,” Gettys remarked.

The Path Forward

The committee faces a challenging task. Various factors, such as skyrocketing costs and funding, must be addressed. Just a few years ago, millions were allocated for interchange work, but increased costs could jeopardize these plans. “We need to start talking about where other funding is going to come from,” cautioned York County Council Chairwoman Christi Cox.

Even if a choice is made, the federal highways group will need to approve the selected option, which may restrain the possibility of choosing the more expensive poise.

As Rock Hill approaches a pivotal moment in its traffic management saga, the decisions made now will shape not only the immediate future but also the long-term urban landscape of the region.