James Island's Long-Awaited Pedestrian Project Finally Moves Forward

For years, residents of James Island have been asking for safer pedestrian routes. Now, the Charleston County Finance Committee is set to award a contract for a much-needed project. This initiative will create sidewalks and a crosswalk on Woodland Shores Road and Maybank Highway. The project, known as ‘Complete Streets, ’ aims to make the area safer for those living on Woodland Shores Road. Adam Friend, who founded a neighborhood association focused on improvement projects, is cautiously optimistic. He's seen the community push for changes, like adding speed humps to Woodland Shores Road. The project includes an 8-foot sidewalk, a midblock crossing, a median, pavement marking, and drainage improvements.A tragic hit-and-run in 2023 that injured Jen Drummond renewed the push for safer streets. The community rallied, advocating for sidewalks and speed bumps. The project, funded through federal and local sources, is expected to cost over $3. 6 million and take at least nine months to complete once started. Friend acknowledges that the project isn't perfect, covering only one side of the road, but he's grateful for the progress made by local and state leaders. The community is eagerly waiting for the work to begin, hoping it will improve safety for all.