BEAUFORT, S.C. (WSAV) — The U.S. Coast Guard has proposed permanent changes to the operation of the Woods Memorial Bridge.
This proposal follows a temporary modified schedule with these same drive-time provisions that began on March 25 earlier this year and is continuing at least through Nov. 30.
Under this proposal, the swing bridge that connects downtown Beaufort to Lady’s Island would not open to boat traffic from 6 a.m.-9:29 a.m. and 3:31 p.m.-7 p.m. Monday through Friday, except for emergencies, and other exceptions granted by regulations. They said that this would allow for easier traffic flow during these times.
From 9:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m., the draw would open once an hour on the half-hour for boat traffic as needed. At all other times, the draw will open on signal.
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The Coast Guard is inviting public feedback on this proposed change.
“I thank the Coast Guard for moving this study forward and appreciate the collaboration of all levels of government working on our historic swing bridge opening schedule,” said State Rep. Shannon Erikson. “I look forward to a robust round of public comment from our community and others so that the best outcomes can be derived.”
To provide feedback:
The Coast Guard is asking for comments on this rule change in the Federal Register. The public is invited to comment at https://www.regulations.gov. Type USCG-2024-0198 in the search box and click “Search.” Next, look for this document in the Search Results column, and click on it. Then click on the Comment option.
The Coast Guard is encouraging all public comment to be made by Dec. 9, 2024.