Copyright Live 5 News WCSC
NORTH CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCSC) - A newly-approved traffic project will add dynamic message signs in six spots around the city of Charleston to provide updates on traffic hazards and delays. The Charleston Area Transportation Study Policy Committee approved the installation of six dynamic message signs at a cost of $2.58 million. The CHATS Intilligent Transportation System is helping fund the signs, which are set to be installed at the following locations in West Ashley, James Island and downtown Charleston: US-17 at Mutual Drive (East Bound) US-17 near Canterbury Road (East Bound) Folly Rd at Hunley Avenue (North Bound) US-17 near SC-61 (West Bound) Morrison Drive at Isabella Street (South Bound) US-17 off-ramp at Morrison Drive (West Bound) “While it’s centered and located in the city of Charleston, think about the number of people who travel through the 17th corridor across the peninsula in and out of Mount Pleasant into downtown. All of those people are going to be the beneficiaries of what you’re going to see when this these signs get out there,” Charleston City Councilman Mike Seekings, who also serves as the chairman of the Traffic and Transportation Committee, said. That funding is also going towards maintenance year-round, as well as training, software, and supporting infrastructure. “With new artificial intelligence that’s coming out there, well, these are going to be on the cutting edge of technology that’s going to be installed,” Charleston Traffic and Transportation ITS and Signal Systems Manager Troy Mitchell said. These signs will inform drivers of road closures, flood alerts, travel advisories, and times. The city will be able to relay any information through these the message signs to reduce congestion and support emergency response initiatives. Instead of signs being brought in and out to send important information to drivers, these new signs will be permanent and something the community can rely on, leaders say.
