York County is investing an additional $16 million into the revamp of the notoriously congested Exit 85 on Interstate 77 due to escalating costs.
This financial redirection will affect funds typically allocated for repaving various roads. Exit 85, a critical junction for Fort Mill and Tega Cay, has seen increased traffic, prompting calls for upgrades from local leaders.
Despite the county’s significant contribution and funding from state and federal agencies, a recent letter revealed a $46 million shortfall for the project. The county’s extra funds, coupled with other financial strategies, aim to bridge this gap and enhance the interchange notorious for its high traffic volumes. The Sun reported the details of the project in August. SC 160 and I-77 Interchange work to begin this year
This infrastructure push is part of a broader effort to manage growing traffic demands, with adjustments in project scope and rising costs of materials and labor contributing to the inflated budget. The county plans to fund this increase through C-Funds, derived from state gas tax revenue.
