WASHINGTON - U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina) today celebrated the South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT) receiving $195 million in federal funding for the Long Point Road Interchange Project.

According to SCDOT, the project will improve operations of the I-526/Long Point Road interchange and I-526 mainline and reduce operational conflicts between port-related and local traffic with new collector-distributor ramps off the mainline directly to the port, improvements to existing ramps, the addition of a 10-foot multiuse path, and construction of noise barriers.

"I am very pleased with the U.S. Department of Transportation's decision to award South Carolina $195 million to complete the Long Point Road interchange project. This project is a game-changer for Charleston County and the Port, and it is critical to ensuring safe travel and continued growth in the region. I am proud to have worked with Governor McMaster, the SCDOT, Representative Nancy Mace, and Congressman Clyburn, a true champion of this project, to make it a reality. This is excellent news for our state," said Senator Graham.

"The Long Point Road Interchange Project is an investment in both our economy and the quality of life of our people that will reduce congestion, improve safety, and enhance access to the Port. Thanks to the support of our congressional delegation, South Carolina continues to secure transformative investments in our infrastructure, ensuring our economy remains strong and competitive for years to come," said Governor Henry McMaster.

"SC Ports thanks the SC Department of Transportation and our Congressional delegation for working together to secure this grant for the Long Point Road Interchange Project, which will establish a direct connection between Interstate 526 and Wando Welch Terminal. The new port access road will support the more efficient movement of freight to and from one of the busiest container terminals on the U.S. East Coast, allowing cargo to move more safely and efficiently. Last-mile connectors such as this are critical to serving our customers and supporting our growth as the No. 8 U.S. container port. This new roadway will also separate cargo-carrying truck traffic from residential traffic, further benefiting surrounding communities. We greatly appreciate all the support from our partners on this crucial infrastructure project," said South Carolina Ports President and CEO Barbara Melvin.

"I am a proud member of Team South Carolina and there is no doubt in my mind that when we work together, we get big things done for the people we serve. South Carolina is now the fastest growing state in the nation and the Port is on track for further expansion that will bring huge rewards for our economy. SCDOT is working hard to make sure our road and bridge network is ready, now and for years to come," said Secretary of Transportation Justin Powell.

"I applaud the Biden-Harris Administration for providing $195 million in federal funding for the Long Point Road Interchange Project. This latest investment will allow for significant improvements along the interchange and support commerce from the Port, helping us to create a safer, more prosperous South Carolina. Our years of hard work have finally materialized," said Congressman James E. Clyburn.

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