SCDOT presents annual report amid challenges and major infrastructure improvements

The South Carolina Senate Transportation Committee convened on March 5, 2025, at 11:00 AM to discuss the annual state of the Department of Transportation (DOT) and address various pressing issues related to infrastructure and disaster response.

The meeting commenced with a prayer for DOT workers facing challenging weather conditions, followed by an introduction of key personnel present, including members of the DOT commission and executive team. The Secretary of Transportation delivered a comprehensive presentation, reflecting on the past year’s accomplishments and challenges.

The Secretary expressed gratitude for the Senate's recognition of a fallen DOT surveyor, Jared Devin Rose, and highlighted the agency's significant achievements over the past ten and a half months. Notably, the DOT secured over $400 million in discretionary grants, initiated construction on three major projects, and effectively responded to multiple natural disasters, including hurricanes and severe storms.

The Secretary emphasized the need for the DOT to adapt to South Carolina's rapid growth since the adoption of the ten-year plan in 2017. He noted that the state has seen an increase in road work from $2.7 billion to over $6.5 billion, with expectations to surpass $7 billion soon. This growth is attributed to legislative support, particularly the passage of Act 40 in 2017, which enabled substantial funding for infrastructure improvements.

The presentation also detailed the DOT's response to recent hurricanes, including the extensive debris cleanup efforts following Hurricane Helene, which resulted in $76 million in damages. The Secretary reported that 85% of repairs from this hurricane are complete, with additional funding from Governor McMaster's budget to cover ongoing expenses.

Looking ahead, the DOT plans to launch a "pothole blitz" to address road damage caused by winter weather and continue efforts to improve road safety, particularly in rural areas, where South Carolina has the highest fatality rate in the nation.

The meeting concluded with a call for continued collaboration between the DOT, the General Assembly, and industry partners to ensure the state's transportation system meets the demands of its growing population and infrastructure needs.