Support Us Button Widget

A major milestone for the Gateway Project

An aerial shot of the Gateway Project

An aerial shot of the Gateway Project from Nov. | Photo by 85-385 Gateway

Table of Contents

One of the Upstate’s most highly anticipated projects is one major step closer to completion. Yesterday, the 85/385 Gateway Project announced “the completion of the 85/385 Gateway interchange configuration,” meaning all routes are officially open. Big news if you’re one of the ~200,000 vehicles that travel the intersection daily.

The Gateway Project is a transformation of the intersection of Interstates 85 and 385 in Greenville County – intended to reduce traffic congestion, improve safety, increase the interchange capacity + provide a financial boost to the local economy.

Let’s take a look at the project scope by the numbers:

  • 2. Two bridges will be rehabilitated/widened (Garlington Rd. overpass bridges).
  • 3. A portion of I-385 will be widened to three lanes.
  • 4. I-85 will be widened to four lanes (from the interchange northbound to Pelham Rd.).
  • 10. Ten new bridge structures will be constructed.
  • 350,000. The new infrastructure is designed to handle 350,000 vehicles per day in the future.
  • ~$250M. The project is estimated to cost ~$250 million (70% of which is funded by the Federal Highway Administration).

Some other aspects of the Gateway Project include replacing tight loop ramps with flyovers + rehabilitating a section of I-85 north and south of the interchange. Work on Chrome Dr., Roper Mountain Rd. + Woodruff Rd. are also included on the list of improvements (read the full project scope here).

project-overlay

Project plan overview of construction area including proposed design solution | Photo from 85385gateway.com

So, what’s left? Here’s a rundown of the remaining tasks to be completed:

  • Final layer of asphalt
  • Pavement markings and raised pavement markers
  • Bridge painting
  • Concrete grinding for smoothness
  • Overhead and ground mounted signs
  • Fencing
  • Digital message signs and traffic cameras
  • Grassing
  • Woodruff Rd. widening
  • Roper Mountain Rd. final alignment
  • Other items as determined by on-going inspections

While all routes are open + there will be no more traffic shifts – drivers may continue to see some nighttime lane closures as work continues.

Construction on the system began in Feb. 2016 and final completion is slotted for 2020. We’ll keep you updated as the project progresses, but in the meantime, you can stay up-to-date by following the project’s official Twitter account, Facebook page, or by subscribing to the mailing list.

Pro tip: If you are traveling through the Gateway Project using your GPS, some systems have not updated to the new routes – so pay close attention to physical street signs.

Poll


More from GVLtoday
The sun may be setting early, but Greenville still has plenty to do.
The City of Greenville is drafting a long-term plan to enhance traffic flow, reduce congestion, improve safety, and promote alternative modes of transportation.
New SC license plates feature the Moultrie Flag and the phrase “Where the Revolutionary War Was Won.”
Submit your Halloween photos for a chance to be featured in GVLtoday.
Exercise your right to vote for city leadership + bookmark our guide to help you prepare to head to the polls for the Municipal Election in Greenville on Tuesday, Nov. 4.
Show some love to your fave businesses in Greenville.
At the Greenville Chamber’s Greenville Greats panel, Artisphere, euphoria, and the City of Greenville talked about the “secret sauce” that makes these major events happen.
Chefs and restaurants will find out if they’ve received a MICHELIN distinction next month, and while you may not be able to secure a ticket to the exclusive event, there is a way to celebrate.
The Mill Village Ministries building in the Village of West Greenville will support the efforts of the organization’s four nonprofits.
Our series highlights local nonprofits, what support they may need (think: donations, volunteers, board members) and the organizations they collaborate with and admire.