News Summary
Residents of Greenville can look forward to significant renovations on the Church Street Bridge starting April 15, 2025. Designed to tackle structural issues from its 1959 construction, the $20 million project will enhance safety, improve pedestrian access, and revitalize the bridge’s aesthetic appeal. While traffic will reduce from four to two lanes during the 16-month construction, efforts will be made to manage disruptions. The project includes widening sidewalks, adding new lighting, and installing new stairs, ensuring a safer and more attractive route for all.
Hello Greenville! Get Ready for Changes on the Church Street Bridge!
Exciting news is on the horizon for residents of Greenville as the long-awaited renovations on the Church Street Bridge are set to kick off on April 15, 2025. For more than six decades, this integral bridge has carried the bustling traffic of our vibrant town, but it’s finally time for a makeover!
Why the Renovation?
The Church Street Bridge, which was originally constructed in 1959, has faced its fair share of wear and tear over the years. Drivers have undoubtedly noticed the telltale signs of aging with potholes and some structural issues. This project, estimated to cost around $20 million, aims to tackle these concerns and revitalize the bridge for years to come.
What Can We Expect?
So, what will all this renovation entail? First off, the project will focus on enhancing safety and improving pedestrian access across the bridge. You can expect to see significant upgrades that will not only boost scenic beauty but also enhance overall functionality. Some of the major changes include:
- Rehabilitation of the bridge deck
- Removal of the median
- Widening sidewalks to provide more room for pedestrians
- Replacing pedestrian barriers for added security
- Installing new lighting for better visibility
- Building new stairs from McBee Avenue
These upgrades will certainly make the bridge a safer and more attractive route for everyone!
What About Traffic?
Now, all those changes come with a few small inconveniences. As work begins, traffic flow will be reduced from four lanes to two lanes, lasting for approximately 16 months. That’s right—if you’re used to zipping across the bridge, you may want to plan your trips a little differently. During the construction phase, the speed limit on the bridge will be reduced to 25 mph to ensure a safe environment for both drivers and construction workers.
If you’re wondering how the city plans to handle the extra traffic this may cause, fear not! The police chief has mentioned that resources will be allocated to manage traffic effectively during these construction phases. Additionally, residents will be provided with alternative routes to help keep our roads flowing smoothly.
A Short Break and Full Closure Ahead
In an interesting twist, construction will hit the brakes in March 2026 to accommodate the NCAA March Madness tournament. However, after that brief pause, the bridge is set for a full shutdown for six weeks starting in June 2026. Mark your calendars, folks!
The entire project is set to wrap up by July 31, 2026, ensuring that the Church Street Bridge is revamped well before the anticipated increase in traffic. In 2021, the average daily traffic over the bridge was a staggering 26,300 vehicles, and projections indicate that it could soar to over 38,000 vehicles by 2039. These renovations could not be more timely!
Staying Informed
Throughout this journey, communication with city residents will be a top priority. City leaders are committed to keeping everyone in the loop regarding progress and expected challenges. Expect updates on timelines, traffic alternatives, and everything else you need to know as construction unfolds.
So there you have it, Greenville! Get ready for a better, more beautiful Church Street Bridge. Let’s embrace the change and look forward to enjoying a safe and scenic route in the coming years!
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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Additional Resources
- Greenville Journal: Church Street Bridge Renovation
- Post and Courier: Church Street Bridge Construction
- Fox Carolina: Downtown Road Improvements Update
- Wikipedia: Bridge
- Greenville Online: Church Street Bridge Rehab
