Governor Henry McMaster has signed into law a major overhaul of South Carolina’s transportation system, restructuring the Department of Transportation (SCDOT) to accelerate road repairs and increase accountability.
The legislation dissolves the existing nine-member SCDOT Commission in January, replacing it with a single transportation secretary appointed by the governor to serve in the state Cabinet. Proponents argue this shift creates a clear line of responsibility for the state’s roads, which have long faced criticism over maintenance timelines and infrastructure quality following decades of underinvestment. SCDOT currently manages more than 40,000 miles of roadway.
To address traffic congestion, the law permits South Carolina to explore “choice lanes” similar to those in Georgia and North Carolina. Drivers could pay a fee to bypass traffic, though officials note these projects require thorough financial and community impact studies first. Any toll lanes would require new construction, ensuring existing free lanes remain open. Supporters hope this will attract private capital to modernize infrastructure, with potential projects eyed near Charleston, Greenville, and the Charlotte border.
Additionally, the bill targets pothole complaints by allocating $15 million annually for repairs. It mandates that SCDOT launch an online reporting dashboard and requires crews to permanently fix reported potholes within seven days, barring severe weather or supply delays.
With transportation remaining a top priority for voters, infrastructure reform is set to be a key issue in the upcoming gubernatorial race between Democratic nominee Jermaine Johnson and Republican nominee Alan Wilson.
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