The South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT) has scheduled a public hearing Tuesday, September 8, 2009, concerning preliminary plans for the proposed bridge replacements and approach work along US Route 601.
The hearing will be from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. in the Webber Elementary School Cafeteria/Multipurpose Room, 140 Webber School Road in Eastover. It is recommended to enter from the Chalk Street Entrance.
The purpose of the hearing is to provide an opportunity to review and discuss individually, with representatives SCDOT, preliminary plans for the proposed bridge replacements and approach work along US Route 601. Another purpose of the hearing will be to gather information from the public or any interested organization on historic or cultural resources in the area.
The proposed improvements consist of replacing the existing, deficient US Route 601 bridge over the Congaree River and three overflow bridges, including pavement resurfacing in Richland and Calhoun Counties. The proposed project would extend approximately 4.2 miles from just south of the intersection of SC 48/US 601 to a point just south of the Richland/Calhoun County line. The bridge replacements and roadway improvements along US 601 will provide new bridges that meet current design standards and provide a safer and more efficient transportation facility.
The format will be as follows. From 6 p.m. until 7 p.m., the hearing format will be informal. Large aerial displays of the entire project will be available for viewing, and project team members from SCDOT will be present to discuss the project with interested citizens on an individual basis.
At 7 p.m., SCDOT will make a brief, formal presentation in the auditorium about the project purpose and need, schedule, and potential natural and human impacts to the community. Immediately following the presentation, citizens will have the option to make formal, verbal comments regarding the proposed project. Anyone who wishes to verbally comment must sign up between 6 p.m. and 6:55 p.m. when entering the public hearing. Each comment will be limited to two minutes and may not be transferred. The informal portion of the public hearing will continue during this time.
Project details, including environmental documentation of the project's effects, will be provided. Maps and drawings of the proposed improvements will be available and citizens may ask questions and provide comments regarding the possible social, economic and environmental effects of the project. Property owners and business owners on or near the project area are encouraged to attend.
Related maps and/or drawings, environmental assessment, and other pertinent data are available for public review at least 15 days prior to the public hearing at the SCDOT's Central Office at 955 Park St. in Columbia and at SCDOT’s District One Office at 1400 Shop Road in Columbia. Additional information concerning the project may be obtained by contacting Program Manager Kati Holland at 803-737-4755 in Columbia. Persons with disabilities who may require special accommodations should contact Karen Davis at 803-737-1549.
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