Hilton Head Island, August 20, 2025
News Summary
The South Carolina Joint Bond Review Committee has approved a $120 million package to replace four existing bridges with a new three-lane bridge connecting Hilton Head Island to Bluffton. This decision represents a major advancement in local infrastructure, responding to growing traffic demands and safety concerns. The updated project, which has seen costs rise significantly over the years, is expected to enter the bidding phase by late 2027, with construction beginning in 2030 and completion anticipated by December 2031.
Hilton Head Island
The South Carolina Joint Bond Review Committee has approved a $120 million funding package for a new bridge connecting Hilton Head Island and Bluffton. This decision was made on August 19, 2025, marking a significant step forward for a project that has been long-awaited by residents and local officials.
The new construction plans involve the replacement of four existing bridges with a single, three-lane bridge. This revised design comes as a response to previous public feedback that led to the project’s original concept being scaled back. Initially, planners aimed for a six-lane bridge with a budget of approximately $292 million. However, rising costs due to inflation and delays in development pushed the estimated price tag to around $500 million.
Funding details reveal that $101 million of the project’s cost will be sourced from existing state resources. The remaining amount is expected to be covered by the South Carolina Department of Transportation and the state Transportation Investment Bank (STIB). The committee’s unanimous endorsement of this reduced scope shows a collaborative effort to address the community’s infrastructure needs.
The need for bridge replacements is underscored by safety concerns and the importance for local economic vitality. The current bridges, which have been operational since 1956, do not adequately serve the growing traffic needs of the area. During emergencies, the new bridge will be capable of accommodating temporary four-lane use, despite being primarily designed for three lanes.
A federal grant proposal seeking $200 million is also on the table to support the construction of additional westbound lanes, which would enhance traffic flow significantly. However, before funding can be allocated, the project requires one more vote from the South Carolina Fiscal Accountability Authority.
If the necessary approvals are secured, the project is expected to go out for bid by late 2027, with construction likely starting in 2030. The completion of the bridge is projected for December 2031.
State Sen. Tom Davis has acknowledged the steps taken by state officials to negotiate and finalize the funding agreement. This initiative stands in contrast to recent infrastructure proposals in Charleston County, which were met with rejection; however, the necessary funding for Beaufort County’s bridge project was successfully obtained due to the adjustments made in its scope.
Project Overview
- Project Name: Hilton Head Bridge Replacement Project
- Funding Approved: $120 million
- Bridges Replaced: Four existing bridges
- New Design: Three-lane bridge (temporary four-lane use during emergencies)
- Initial Estimate: $292 million (increased to $500 million)
- Funding Sources: $101 million from state resources, remaining from S.C. Department of Transportation/ STIB
- Federal Grant Proposal: $200 million for additional lanes
- Expected Bid Date: Late 2027
- Construction Start: 2030
- Projected Completion: December 2031
Background Context
The planning for this bridge project has spanned several years and has faced various challenges, most notably a failed tax referendum in November 2024 that delayed funding considerations and stakeholder consensus. The current design reflects an effort to align community needs, budget constraints, and safety requirements in a pivotal area for both residents and businesses.
FAQ
What is the purpose of the Hilton Head Bridge Project?
The project aims to replace four existing bridges with a new three-lane bridge to improve safety and accommodate increased traffic between Hilton Head Island and Bluffton.
How much funding has been approved for the project?
$120 million has been approved by the South Carolina Joint Bond Review Committee for the new bridge project.
When is the construction expected to start?
Construction is anticipated to start in 2030, with the project projected to be completed by December 2031.
Key Features Summary
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Funding Amount | $120 million |
| Bridge Design | Three-lane bridge (temporary four-lane use during emergencies) |
| Initially Proposed Cost | $292 million (later increased to $500 million) |
| Funding Breakdown | $101 million from state resources; remainder from S.C. Department of Transportation and STIB |
| Expected Bid Timeline | Late 2027 |
| Projected Construction Start | 2030 |
| Completion Date | December 2031 |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport Expands Facilities
Columbia, South Carolina Faces Rain and Celebrates Sports Attendance
Talmadge Memorial Bridge Reopens Following Crane Strike
Beaufort County Prepares for Extreme Heat Wave
Fatal Six-Vehicle Crash in Bluffton Causes Major Disruptions
Barge Collision Causes Damage to J. Wilton Graves Bridge
Traffic Disruptions in Hilton Head Island Due to Accidents
South Carolina: A Prime Retirement Destination for Seniors
Additional Resources
- Island Packet
- Wikipedia: Hilton Head Island
- Post and Courier
- Google Search: Hilton Head Island bridge project
- MSN News
- Google Scholar: Hilton Head bridge funding
- Post and Courier
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Hilton Head Island
- Island Packet
- Google News: Hilton Head Island bridge replacement
Author: STAFF HERE HILTON HEAD
The HILTON HEAD STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREHiltonHead.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Hilton Head Island, Beaufort County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the RBC Heritage golf tournament, Hilton Head Island Wine & Food Festival, and the Gullah Celebration. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce and Community Foundation of the Lowcountry, plus leading businesses in tourism and hospitality that power the local economy such as Sea Pines Resort and Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
