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SCDOT updates Blythewood council on Scout Motors interchange, railroad bridge and US‑21 realignment
Summary
South Carolina Department of Transportation briefed council on major interchange work tied to the Scout Motors plant, including construction status, interim traffic conditions and a phased completion schedule through summer 2027.
A South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT) representative briefed the Blythewood Town Council on progress for the Scout Motors interchange, US‑21 realignment and a railroad bridge over I‑77. The presentation included construction photos, interim traffic changes and a multi‑phase schedule.
Key points from SCDOT: Brooks Bickley of SCDOT said Community Road was closed on May 5 to advance interchange foundations and that milling and deep foundations are underway. SCDOT reported about 90% completion of clearing and grubbing in several corridors and that asphalt milling on Community Road is complete. Bickley described placement of piles, caps, columns and girders for the railroad bridge and said girders are being set; night work and rolling roadblocks were used for girder installations.
Project schedule presented to council: SCDOT listed interim conditions and target completion dates: Community Road full connectivity (Interim Condition 1) and Scout Motors Drive connectivity — March 31, 2026; railroad bridge substantially complete — November 2025; US‑21 realignment substantially complete — November 2026; all interchange work and I‑77 widening complete — summer 2027. SCDOT advised that final roadway plans were expected at the end of the week following the briefing.
Local concerns: A resident asked about temporary materials on site (Jersey walls) near Mueller Road School and requested that SCDOT consider placing barriers to protect the adjacent drop‑off. Bickley said SCDOT would look into localized protection and noted that large components (girders) are nearly 10 feet tall and the project remains a massive construction undertaking.
Ending: Council asked for SCDOT pictures to be posted to the town website. SCDOT agreed to provide images and follow‑up information on the railroad crossing work with Norfolk Southern.
