Hilton Head council approves revised bridge project plan with $300 million budget

The Beaufort County Council meeting on February 24, 2025, focused on the ongoing bridge project and its implications for local infrastructure. Council members discussed the necessity of moving forward with the project, which has been in development for eight years, amid budget constraints and the need for repairs.

The original plan for a six-lane bridge was scaled back due to funding limitations, with only $300 million available from an estimated $500 million budget. The revised plan will replace one of the four spans of the bridge and provide a new structure for eastbound traffic, initially striped for two lanes but designed to accommodate three lanes in the future. Access to Pinkney Island will change, requiring drivers to go to Windmill Harbor instead of having a direct off-ramp.

Council members emphasized the urgency of the project, citing concerns about rising costs and potential delays. The project will also include improvements in the Stony neighborhood, funded by a $5 million allocation specifically for road and safety enhancements. This funding aims to support economic development and infrastructure improvements in the area.

The meeting highlighted the importance of collaboration with the Public Service Districts (PSDs) to ensure the water supply is not disrupted during construction. The PSDs manage a significant portion of the island's water supply, and their cooperation is crucial for the project's success.

Overall, the council's discussions underscored the need for timely action on the bridge project and the associated infrastructure improvements, with plans for further public meetings to clarify details as the project progresses.