SCDOT to Shift Traffic Pattern on U.S. 21 Bridges

Southbound lanes will move to a newly constructed bridge over Congaree Creek starting November 2.

Updated on Oct. 30, 2026 in Car Types

Bold flat-color editorial illustration depicting a bridge, representing an infrastructure traffic pattern change in Columbia. — The South Carolina Department of Transportation will shift southbound traffic on U.S. 21 over Congaree Creek onto a new bridge starting November 2. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Do you expect the new traffic pattern on U.S. Route 21 to improve your daily commute?

The South Carolina Department of Transportation is scheduled to implement a new traffic pattern on the U.S. Route 21 bridges over Congaree Creek on November 2, 2026. This change shifts all southbound lanes onto a newly built structure while the northbound lanes remain in their current location.

Why it matters

This traffic shift is part of an ongoing infrastructure project to improve the bridges crossing Congaree Creek. Drivers in the Columbia area should prepare for the modified layout to ensure a smooth transition during their daily commute.

The project involves shifting southbound traffic onto a newly constructed bridge over Congaree Creek. The two northbound lanes will continue to operate in their current location.

The players

South Carolina Department of Transportation

The South Carolina Department of Transportation is the government agency responsible for the state's highway system and infrastructure projects.

The details

The adjustment is a key milestone for the bridge crossing Congaree Creek in Columbia. Construction on the broader project is currently scheduled to reach completion in late 2027.

November 2, 2026: Implementation of the new U.S. 21 traffic pattern.
Late 2027: Expected completion of the entire bridge construction project.

Roadmap

The bridge construction follows the broader national pattern of aging infrastructure modernization prioritized under the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. This project allows the state to maintain regional connectivity while upgrading capacity for growing traffic demands.

Commuters using U.S. 21 in Columbia should anticipate a permanent shift in lane positioning starting November 2. Drivers are advised to exercise caution and pay attention to new signage while navigating the bridge during the transition period.

The takeaway

Drivers should plan for potential confusion during the initial days of the traffic pattern change on November 2. Always follow posted speed limits and construction zone signage to maintain safety through the active work site.