SCDOT Requests Public Comment on the 2024-2033 Statewide Transportation Improvement Program to Include Bridge Replacements in Bamberg and Orangeburg counties

Columbia, S.C. (April 8, 2026) - The South Carolina Department of Transportation seeks public comment on the action to amend the 2024-2033 Statewide Transportation Improvement Program (STIP) to include bridge replacements in Bamberg and Orangeburg counties. SCDOT will receive public comment for the 21-day period from April 8 to 29, 2026.

Two bridge replacements, S-5-20 over S. Fork Edisto River in Bamberg County and S-38-1148 over Caw Caw Swamp in Orangeburg County, were approved for addition to the STIP by the Commission in July 2024. SCDOT has identified four proximity bridges that will be impacted by these replacements and recommends replacement of those bridges due to the roadway profile grade raises at each site.

The existing bridge in Bamberg County, S-5-20 over South Fork Edisto River, Asset 5889 (Mile point 4.923) has three bridges within close proximity. These bridges are:

• Asset 6423: S-5-20 over South Edisto River Swamp (Mile point 4.856),
• Asset 7322: S-5-20 over South Edisto River Swamp (Mile point 4.763), and
• Asset 7321: S-5-20 over South Edisto River Swamp (Mile point 4.662).

The existing bridge in Orangeburg County, S-38-1148 over Caw Caw Swamp, Asset ID 3955 (Mile point 0.682). The one bridge within proximity is:

• Asset 3956: S-38-1148 over Caw Caw Swamp (Mile point 0.762).

The grade raise will impact vertical geometry along the route at the bridge and along the portion of the roadway in both direction to tie to existing grades/alignments. The proposed projects will include preliminary engineering, right of way, and construction work for all six bridges. The total cost for preliminary engineering work for all six bridges is $1,336,607.

Visit scdot.org/projects/public-comment-notices to view all STIP Comment Notices and submit comments online. To assist those who do not have internet access, a printed copy of this press release and any supporting information is available for public review and comment at any of the South Carolina Department of Transportation District Offices and the South Carolina Councils of Government Offices. 

Submit a Comment

Comments will be accepted through April 29, 2026 and should be submitted to Ginny Jones, Public Involvement Director, SCDOT Office of Public Engagement, 955 Park Street, P.O. Box 191, Columbia, SC 29202. Comments may also be submitted online or by email to SCDOTpubliccomment@scdot.org. Please note, any information provided, including names and addresses, is subject to disclosure under the Freedom of Information Act.

About SCDOT

The South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT) is the state agency with oversight of South Carolina’s network of highways and bridges, including responsibilities such as planning, design, construction, financing, and roadway safety. To ensure the nation’s fourth-largest highway system is prepared to serve the needs of South Carolina’s growing economy and population, SCDOT has developed a Strategic 10-Year Plan that addresses improvements to the state’s highway and bridge systems. Learn more at scdot.org.