Beaufort County secures $120 million for U.S. 278 bridge upgrades

The South Carolina Transportation Infrastructure Bank (SIB) has approved $120 million in funding for the U.S. 278 Corridor Project, a long-planned initiative to replace aging bridge spans and enhance transportation safety between Hilton Head Island and the mainland.

In a vote held June 23rd, the SIB board authorized funding for the project, which is considered a critical infrastructure improvement for Beaufort County. The funding will support replacement of the existing bridge spans, enhancements to safety features, and improvements aimed at bolstering evacuation capabilities during hurricane events.

Additional upgrades will include improved traffic signals, dedicated bike and pedestrian lanes, and better access points to nearby communities.

“Beaufort County is grateful for the State Infrastructure Bank’s vote today to approve funding for the U.S. 278 Corridor Project,” Beaufort County Council Chair Alice Howard was quoted as saying in a press release. “This is a monumental moment for Beaufort County residents and visitors, both present and future.”

The project is being led through a partnership between Beaufort County, the South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT), and the Town of Hilton Head Island.

Officials said the approval marks a significant milestone, allowing the project to move into the next phases of environmental review and final design. Construction is currently expected to begin in 2028.

According to the town’s release, the bridge spans currently in use are reaching the end of their effective life. Officials said the new infrastructure will improve traffic flow and public safety and provide more reliable evacuation routes during emergencies.

Beaufort County officials credited state legislators and local stakeholders who advocated for the revised project proposal, including Sen. Tom Davis, who played a key role in the process. His support helped secure state-level funding and facilitate cooperation among various agencies.

Key milestones

• June 23rd, 2025: SIB approves $120 million in project funding
• Mid-2026: Final design phase to begin
• 2028: Construction scheduled to start

Public engagement will continue throughout the project’s development, with updates and design input opportunities provided by Beaufort County and SCDOT.

For more information and ongoing updates, residents can visit Beaufort County’s website: beaufortcountysc.gov or the Town of Hilton Head Island at hiltonheadislandsc.gov.