The South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT) announced that the right lane on the US 501 bridge over the Intracoastal Waterway will be closed overnight on Thursday, Nov. 12, and again on Friday, Nov. 13. The closures are part of a scheduled, routine maintenance and inspection program that keeps the bridge safe for the heavy traffic that moves between Conway, Carolina Forest and the Grand Strand.
What drivers can expect
SCDOT will work on one side of the bridge each night, leaving at least one lane open in each direction at all times. Motorists are asked to slow down, stay alert, and be prepared for temporary cones after the evening rush. No exact start time was given, but the work will begin sometime after rush‑hour traffic subsides.
Why the work is done at night
State rules prohibit lane closures on primary routes during periods when traffic volume exceeds 800 vehicles per hour per lane. US 501 carries far more traffic during daylight hours, making overnight work the only practical option. The same approach was used for a four‑night inspection of the US 501 bridge over the Waccamaw River in May 2025.
Local impact and alternatives
Because the bridge is a key gateway for residents and visitors, the brief closures will cause minor delays, especially for those working late‑shifts in hospitality, health‑care and retail. Drivers can use the nearby SC 31 Carolina Bays Parkway or the SC 544 bridge as detours, though most will find staying on US 501 and reducing speed the quickest route.
Broader corridor improvements
The lane closures are part of a larger, taxpayer‑funded effort to upgrade US 501. Horry County’s RIDE 3 penny sales tax has financed a $41 million six‑lane widening from SC 31 to the SC 544 interchange, with an additional $13.9 million realignment project near the beach. Both projects are slated for completion in fall 2026, though recent updates show work still progressing as of June 2026.
Keeping the public informed
SCDOT encourages drivers to call the toll‑free line 855‑GO‑SCDOT (855‑467‑2368) with questions or to check for any schedule changes. Assuming no unforeseen issues, both lanes on the Intracoastal Waterway bridge should be fully open by 6 a.m. on Saturday, Nov. 14.
Looking ahead
Residents should continue to monitor SCDOT announcements for future maintenance windows, as the agency balances essential upkeep with the growing traffic demands on this vital coastal corridor.
Original reporting: MyrtleBeachSC News — read the source article.
