US 278 Eastbound Bridge Replacement
What is the US 278 Eastbound Bridge Replacement Project?
The South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT) and Beaufort County are proposing to replace the eastbound bridges over Mackay and Skull Creeks with a new three-lane bridge. Subject to Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) approval, construction is anticipated to begin in early 2028.
This project would include…
A new three-lane bridge with full shoulders on both sides to improve emergency response and be future ready
A ramp and local road to improve access to Pinckney Island and the C.C. Haigh Jr. Boat Landing, addressing long-standing community concerns
The ‘Hog Island Connector,’ a local access road and bridge maintaining access to Hog Island and Mariner’s Cove
Why now? Safety comes first.
The eastbound bridge over Mackay Creek is aging—and staying on schedule matters. Built in 1956, it’s weathered decades of saltwater and storms. While the bridge is still safe for daily use, it takes more time and money to maintain and is nearing the end of its useful life. Replacing it now helps avoid future problems and ensures the bridge continues to support emergency response, deliveries, and storm evacuations—in addition to everyday life.
This bridge was placed on South Carolina’s statewide priority list years ago, and beginning construction in early 2028 keeps us aligned with that original timeline. Delaying action for this bridge could mean heavier maintenance costs, future restrictions on heavy vehicles, or even temporary closures that could disrupt access to Hilton Head Island.
Keeping Beaufort County moving, safely.
US 278 Eastbound Bridge Replacement vs. US 278 Corridor Improvements
You may be familiar with the US 278 Corridor Improvements project. This project is still a priority, and SCDOT and Beaufort County are continuing to explore funding opportunities. The eastbound bridge replacement is moving forward as a separate project—and it’s being designed as a three-lane bridge with full shoulders to fit seamlessly into future corridor upgrades should funding become available.
As a result, the study area for this project is limited to Moss Creek Drive in Bluffton to C Hendrichs Circle by Windmill Harbour just onto Hilton Head Island.
The US 278 Eastbound Bridge Replacement project does not include traffic improvements on Hilton Head Island such as:
Dual left-turn lanes from US 278 onto Squire Pope Road
Left-turn restrictions on US 278 on Hilton Head Island
Changes to the US 278 meander on Jenkins Island
Additionally, no bike or pedestrian facilities would be included on or off the new bridge at this time, including scenic look-out points. These elements were part of broader corridor improvements but are not included in the US 278 Eastbound Bridge Replacement project. However, that also means there are no anticipated impacts to the Stoney Community.
Submit a Comment
We value your input and would like to hear from you. Please use the form below to submit a comment about the US 278 Eastbound Bridge Replacement project.
Looking to comment on the US 278 Corridor Improvements project? Click here to visit that website.