BEAUFORT, SC — The South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT) recently held a ribbon-cutting ceremony to open the new bridge along US 21 (Sea Island Parkway) over the Harbor River in Beaufort County. Speakers included State Senator George E. Campsen III of District 43, State Representative Michael F. Rivers Sr. of District 121, and Secretary of Transportation Christy Hall.

SCDOT has constructed a new, modern bridge to carry US 21 over Harbor River in Beaufort County. This new bridge will replace the structurally deficient and functionally obsolete 82-year-old swing-span bridge, which had provided the only means for vehicular transportation from the mainland to Harbor Island, Hunting Island, and Fripp Island. US 21 serves as a designated hurricane evacuation route for coastal Beaufort County and had experienced washouts and damage during prior hurricane seasons at the old swing bridge location.

The project is part of SCDOT's 10-year Strategic Plan to replace hundreds of structurally deficient bridges across the state. The new over 3,000-foot-long, 65-foot-high bridge will provide uninterrupted access for boats along the river below as well as improved safety for motorists traveling along US 21. This $77-million project is on-budget and is expected to be completed 60 days ahead of schedule. The old swing bridge will be removed and utilized offshore as an artificial reef.