Hilton Head Island discusses traffic improvements and Mackay Creek Bridge project funding

Traffic concerns and infrastructure improvements dominated the Hilton Head Island Town Council meeting on June 3, 2025, as officials discussed the implications of a new bridge project and its impact on local traffic patterns. Town Manager Mark Orlando provided an update on the William Hilton Parkway Gateway Corridor project, highlighting Beaufort County's recent approval of a new eastbound bridge over Mackay Creek. This bridge, funded in part by an $80 million allocation from a 2018 transportation sales tax referendum, is expected to enhance access to Hilton Head Island but leaves no immediate funding for necessary corridor improvements.

Orlando emphasized the importance of the bridge, which will initially operate as a two-lane structure with a third lane reserved for future use. However, he cautioned that the funding decision effectively halts progress on other critical traffic enhancements along the US 278 corridor, particularly from Moss Creek to Squire Pope Road. He noted that the community had previously expressed concerns about overdevelopment and incompatible designs, leading to a more cautious approach to infrastructure planning.

In response to the pressing need for improvements, Orlando and his team proposed a refined corridor master plan that would align with the Town Council's goals and current conditions. They aim to identify initial phase improvements, particularly at the Squire Pope Road intersection, to enhance safety and traffic flow.

Council members were urged to support the advancement of this work, as collaboration with state and county officials will be crucial in shaping the future of the corridor. The meeting underscored the town's commitment to balancing infrastructure development with community needs and safety, setting the stage for ongoing discussions about the island's transportation future.