Arborist expresses concerns over possible loss of trees during bridge project
Arborist Ben Williamson and concerned citizens met with representatives from SCDOT and design consultant firm Mead and Hunt about the possible visual impact of the upcoming US-52 (North Main Street) bridge replacement project. Photo by Samantha Lyles
Representatives from SCDOT and design consultant firm Mead and Hunt met with concerned citizen and arborist Ben Williamson last Thursday to discuss the upcoming US-52 (North Main Street) bridge replacement project and the effect it will have on nearby trees. Williamson expressed concern that the expanded right-of-ways necessary to construct the new bridge to modern standards would require the removal of seven oak trees, thereby negatively impacting the visual appearance of this entry route into Darlington.
Later that day, the representatives met with Darlington city manager Howard Garland and agreed to make every effort to save four of the seven trees. Garland said SCDOT agreed that when the project is bid out, the contractor will consult with the city’s arborist regarding the oaks. The bridge replacement project is slated to begin in December of 2018 and be completed by mid 2019. During construction, traffic will be restricted to one lane, but the road will remain passable.