International Boulevard Intersection Improvement

International boulevard intersection improvement

Charleston County, SC

Client: Charleston County

Date Completed:

Professional Services: 2022

Construction: N/A

Services Provided:

Roadway design

SCDOT coordination

Project specific specifications

Construction cost estimates

DESCRIPTION: The The project involved a new right turn lane from International Boulevard onto Tanger Outlet Boulevard to address the operations and capacity for the signalized intersection. Due to the high volume of right turn vehicles co-mingling in the outside through/right turn lane, vehicles would significantly queue between this intersection and the W. Montague Avenue intersection during the AM and PM peak hours.

The County’s initial assumption was a standard-length right turn lane constructed within the present right of way; however, from J. Bragg Consulting’s (JBC) initial field review, it was noted that new right of way (R/W) would be required based on the existing topography and adjacent development.

From the initial traffic analysis and based on the right turn volumes, a longer right turn was discussed. Two options were presented: 1) 200-ft storage with 180-ft taper and R/W from 1 property, and 2) 250-ft storage with 180-ft taper and R/W from 2 properties while avoiding existing parking spaces. The County selected the first option. This required coordinating with the property owner for the closure of one driveway closest to the intersection radius, acquisition of new right of way and slope and drainage structure permissions since the widening affected 2 of their existing catch basins requiring new ones to be installed.

There were also significant utilities within the project area, and by coordinating with the utilities, JBC designed the new drainage system to avoid the existing utilities. Also, signal plans were developed for the right turn lane and required the installation of a new mast arm since the existing mast arm could not be retained. The design also avoided the Tanger Outlet marque sign.

RESPONSIBILITIES: J. Bragg Consulting (JBC) performed project management, utility coordination, and roadway and drainage design to develop conceptual, preliminary and construction plans for the new right turn lane. JBC coordinated with subconsultants for the survey, traffic analysis and signal design, and R/W acquisition. JBC also coordinated with the City of North Charleston, County, and the property owner during the preliminary design phase prior to starting the R/W acquisition process.

JBC developed the pavement marking & sign, traffic control, and erosion control plans; quantities and construction cost estimate; and specification package with project specific specifications for the signal and decorative crosswalk. While R/W was required from 1 property, JBC prepared 2 R/W exhibits – 1 for new right of way along International Boulevard from the property owner and 1 for the City to quitclaim right of way along Tanger Outlet Boulevard to the property owner – for a land swap. Through on-going coordination with the city, JBC also obtained the encroachment permit and MS4 permit.

18 Daffodil Farm Way

Bluffton, SC 29910