News Summary
Duncan in Spartanburg County is set to welcome a new diverging diamond interchange at the intersection of I-85 and SC Highway 290. This innovative design aims to improve traffic flow and safety as it becomes South Carolina’s third such interchange, although the project is currently running a year behind schedule, with completion expected by summer 2025. Residents are feeling the impact of construction delays, but additional lanes and a new pedestrian path are included to enhance accessibility.
Exciting Changes Coming to Duncan with New Interchange!
Hey folks, have you heard the buzz around Duncan in Spartanburg County? Big changes are on the horizon with a shiny new diverging diamond interchange that’s set to pop up at the busy intersection of I-85 and SC Highway 290. This is no ordinary construction project—it’s actually South Carolina’s third diverging diamond interchange, joining the ranks of similar projects in Fort Mill and Chapin. So, what’s all the fuss about, and when can we expect to see it finished? Let’s break it down!
A Bit Behind Schedule
Now, we all know construction doesn’t always go as planned, right? Well, this diverging diamond project is about a year behind schedule but don’t worry too much! The folks in charge are aiming to wrap it up before summer 2025. We’re keeping our fingers crossed!
What’s A Diverging Diamond Interchange, Anyway?
If you’re scratching your head wondering what a diverging diamond interchange is, you’re not alone! It’s a unique design that allows vehicles to exit I-85 and make left turns onto Highway 290 without crossing through traditional intersections. Instead, they’ll be on the left side of the highway as they make that turn. This clever layout is set to improve traffic flow and safety for everyone on the road. No more waiting and watching for oncoming traffic while trying to turn left!
Construction Challenges
Of course, every rose has its thorns. The project has faced its fair share of bumps in the road—literally! Weather woes, especially from Tropical Storm Helene, and pesky supply chain challenges have caused delays. To top it off, adjustments for local utilities meant some extra time was needed to get everything just right.
As the construction continues, local traffic has become a bit of a headache, especially during peak hours. Drivers are experiencing slow-moving traffic, and, unfortunately, the number of accidents has been on the rise around the construction zone. First responders are frequently called out to the area, addressing sometimes serious incidents and leading to increased concern among both residents and motorists.
Residents Feeling the Impact
People in Duncan are feeling a bit frustrated, and who can blame them? With the current traffic conditions, it’s easy to see why locals are concerned. But there’s good news on the horizon! This $17.9 million project is not just about the interchange alone. It involves adding new lanes on every entrance ramp as well as an additional westbound lane on Highway 290 to help ease the congestion.
Construction Features
One of the standout features of this project is that the existing bridge over I-85 is being widened to make room for a new pedestrian path. This is just another step towards making Duncan more accessible for everyone.
Highway Resurfacing Efforts
But wait, there’s more! The interchange construction is part of a larger initiative to resurface Highway 290 from Reidville Road to North Danzler. Funding for this effort is coming thanks to the Penny Sales Tax initiative. Over the past month, local crews have made significant headway on the resurfacing work, which they’re doing at night to minimize disruptions to daily traffic. Let’s be honest; everyone prefers hitting the road without delays!
A Bright Future Ahead
Duncan’s leaders are keenly aware of the road woes and have identified Highway 290 as a critical area for improvement, especially considering regional growth and crash statistics. So, while construction can be a pain now, it’s all part of a larger plan to enhance road safety and improve the flow of traffic as more people move into the area.
As we look ahead, the community is embracing the changes and improvements that are set to make Duncan a better place to drive, live, and thrive. So hang tight, Duncan residents! Your patience will surely pay off as these exciting developments take shape!
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- GoUpstate: South Carolina’s Third Diverging Diamond Interchange
- WSPA: Two Major Road Projects Underway on Highway 290
- WSPA: Heavy Traffic, SCDOT Work on Upstate Interchange
- GoUpstate: SCDOT Updates on I-85 in Spartanburg
- GoUpstate: Spartanburg County Project on I-85 Interchange
- Wikipedia: Diverging Diamond Interchange
- Google Search: Traffic Interchange Design
- Google Scholar: Diverging Diamond Interchange
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Traffic Engineering
- Google News: Interchange Construction Projects
