SC I-95 Improvements from Savannah River to US 278
SCDOT is evaluating ways to Fix the Drive on I-95 while planning for future growth in this corridor. This is the first project near the South Carolina/Georgia border in a series of planned improvements throughout I-95 in South Carolina. View the full project list to learn about other Fix the Drive projects.
Project Description
The project area spans a 10-mile corridor of I-95, starting on I-95 one mile past the Georgia state line continuing to approximately mile marker 9 (just north of US 278). This area includes 14 bridges, two existing interchanges (Exits 5 and 8), and a new proposed interchange at Exit 3 that is being completed as a separate project by the Town of Hardeeville.
The purpose of this I-95 Improvements (formerly I-95 Widening) project is to improve capacity, mobility, and operations along the 10-mile corridor of I-95 from one mile into Georgia at the Savannah River to approximately mile marker 9 (just north of US 278) and to address operational deficiencies for interchanges and bridges within the corridor.
Our region continues to grow—more people and more jobs. While today’s traffic can seem heavy at times, traffic on this portion of I-95 is expected to intensify over the next couple of decades. In 2050, this portion of I-95 is anticipated to experience heavy traffic congestion, including Exits 5 and 8.
According to the I-95 Feasibility Report completed by SCDOT in 2021, this corridor ranks among the worst of the rural interstates in freight mobility.
The Town of Hardeeville is planning a new interchange at Purrysburg Road (mile marker 3) to support local commercial, industrial, distribution, and residential developments. The I-95 Widening Project will be designed to accommodate any additional growth as a result of this new interchange and the surrounding developments.
Project Status
We are in the Construction Phase of the project development process.
Project schedule is subject to change. As of March 2026.
The Latest
Construction:
Shoulder reconstruction is nearly complete.
Crews are preparing bridge foundations and support structures at multiple locations including the Savannah River Bridge, Sand Island Swamp and SC 46.
Clearing and grubbing are taking place to prepare the site for utility work in multiple locations.
Work zone traffic systems remain active throughout the corridor, supporting safe travel during construction.
Click photos for a larger view
Groundbreaking (August 14, 2025): SCDOT hosted a groundbreaking ceremony to kick off construction on the I-95 Improvements Project in Jasper County.
Click here to read the full announcement about the groundbreaking ceremony
Click photos for a larger view
Temporary Closure of John Smith Overpass and Road (March 12, 2026): The South Carolina Department of Transportation will close the John Smith Road overpass and road between US 278 and US 17 in Jasper County beginning on March 23, 2026 for the remainder of the year. During this closure, local traffic will be allowed to access portions of John Smith Road, but the road will be closed to through traffic. This closure will allow for a complete replacement of the bridge over I-95 as a part of the I-95 corridor improvements from the state line at Georgia and mile marker 8.
Click here to read the full announcement about the John Smith Overpass and Road closure
