Date: February 7, 2025
Subject: Urgent Safety Improvements Needed at Maybank Highway & Headquarters Plantation Drive Intersection
To: South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT)
From: Concerned Residents and Commuters of James Island, Johns Island, and Surrounding Areas
We, the undersigned residents, commuters, and concerned citizens, urgently call upon the South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT) to take immediate action to improve the safety of the intersection at Maybank Highway and Headquarters Plantation Drive, located on the Paul Gelegotis Bridge (Stono Bridge). This intersection has long been a safety concern, and tragically, a fatal accident occurred there last week. Without prompt intervention, future accidents and loss of life remain a significant risk.
Key Safety Concerns:
- Unstable Traffic Signals – The existing cable-hung traffic signals frequently drift out of optimal alignment due to high winds on the bridge, reducing their visibility and effectiveness.
- Inadequate Lighting – Poor illumination, especially during sunrise, sunset, and adverse weather conditions, significantly increases the risk of accidents.
- Lack of Advance Warning – Drivers are often unaware of the intersection ahead due to limited warning signals, leading to abrupt braking and increased collision potential.
- High Traffic Volume – The intersection experiences heavy commuter and local traffic, further compounding safety concerns and necessitating immediate improvements.
- Speeding and Red Light Violations – Congested traffic on James and Johns Island often leads to aggressive acceleration as drivers reach this open stretch of the bridge. Many disregard traffic signals, running red lights in an attempt to make up for lost time, significantly increasing the risk of collisions at the intersection.
Requested Safety Enhancements:
To improve awareness and visibility at this critical intersection, we respectfully urge SCDOT to implement additional safety measures such as:
- Flashing Yellow Light Before the Intersection – A warning signal to alert drivers in advance, reducing the likelihood of sudden stops and rear-end collisions.
- Mast Arm Traffic Signal – A sturdier, high-wind-resistant signal installation to prevent misalignment and ensure optimal visibility at all times.
- Relay Light System – Similar to those used on drawbridges, an additional relay light can provide clearer direction to motorists approaching the intersection.
- Enhanced Visibility Measures – Implement improved lighting, reflective signage, and other visibility enhancements to mitigate the challenges posed by sunrise, sunset, and inclement weather.
- Green Arrow for Eastbound Traffic – A dedicated green arrow signal for vehicles turning left off Maybank Highway when heading east toward James Island, improving traffic flow and intersection safety.
Community Support & Call to Action:
The residents and commuters who use this roadway daily deserve a safer intersection. We urge SCDOT to prioritize this matter and take decisive action to prevent further tragedies. We request a formal response outlining the planned course of action and a timeline for potential improvements.
We appreciate your attention to this urgent matter and look forward to a timely and effective resolution.
Sincerely,
Concerned Residents of James Island, Johns Island, and the Surrounding Community.