Expect More Delays on Johnnie Dodds

Expect big delays if you venture out on Johnnie Dodds Boulevard during nighttime hours. Charleston County advises that beginning today and through August 11, there will be periodic closures of the road.

The work is necessary to continue installing underground drainage pipes and  to prepare and place asphalt for the project, according to a county news release. All construction areas will be marked with construction cones and signs.

Here’s what to expect:

Johnnie Dodds Boulevard Nighttime Lane Closures
Drivers should expect temporary, nighttime lane closures for three miles on Johnnie Dodds Boulevard from the end of the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge to Interstate 526.

The construction activity will occur from 9 p.m. to 6 a.m. The speed limit on Johnnie Dodds Boulevard will be reduced from 45 mph to 35 mph in the construction zone when crews are working. Temporary signs will alert the public of the speed limit reduction.

During this month, asphalt will be placed on Johnnie Dodds Boulevard to establish proper drainage runoff so the work in the median can be completed. This work will become part of the permanent pavement.

East Frontage Road Daytime Lane Closures
Drivers should expect temporary, daytime lane closures on East Frontage Road from Magrath Darby Boulevard to Bowman Road. The construction activity will occur from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Drivers will have access to businesses along East Frontage Road at all times during construction.           

West Frontage Road Daytime Lane Closures
Drivers should expect temporary, daytime lane closures on West Frontage Road from Mathis Ferry Road to Bowman Road. The construction activity will occur from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Drivers will have access to businesses along West Frontage Road at all times during construction.

East Frontage Road Nighttime Road Closures
Drivers should expect minor, nighttime road closures from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m. due to eastbound and westbound road closures of East Frontage Road from Magrath Darby Boulevard to Bowman Road.

The daily starting time may be delayed until 9 p.m. if traffic is heavy.

West Frontage Road Nighttime Road Closures
Drivers should expect minor, nighttime road closures from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m. due to eastbound and westbound road closures of West Frontage Road from Mathis Ferry Road to Bowman Road.

The daily starting time may be delayed until 9 p.m. if traffic is heavy.

Drivers traveling through the construction zones are asked to be aware of equipment and crews working in the area. Alternative routes are recommended if possible.

The goal of the project, which is expected to be completed in the fall of 2012, is to improve the traffic flow in and out of Mount Pleasant, especially before and after school and work hours.

The project is funded by the Charleston County Transportation Sales Tax and managed by Charleston County Government, in close coordination with the Town of Mount Pleasant and the S.C. Department of Transportation.

The public can get up-to-date project information, including construction status and traffic alerts, online at http://www.ccroadwise.org/johnnie_dodds.html.