Beaufort, S.C. — (November 6, 2025) The Charles-Craven Streets Drainage project requires that the intersection of Bay Street and Charles Street be closed to traffic beginning November 13 with downtown access will remain available via marked detours. The intersection will remain closed for five to six weeks.  This closure is occurring sooner than expected due to project excavation findings that require further engineering evaluation.

This project is funded through the American Rescue Plan Act using State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds.  It is managed by the South Carolina Office of Resiliency (SCOR). The work is essential to improving stormwater management, protecting key downtown corridors from future flooding, and ensuring the long-term health and safety of the area. 

With the intersection closure coming at an inopportune time for downtown merchants and annual holiday events, City officials, along with State Representative Shannon Erickson, worked diligently with SCOR for alternative dates and routes to delay the start of construction. 

“SCOR worked with us upon our request and examined and reexamined the project with the contractor and engineers”, said Representative Erickson, “Unfortunately, the timeline for closing the intersection is necessary to ensure project completion and preservation of funding for it.”

Downtown Remains Open for Business
 The City is committed to supporting downtown residents, businesses, and visitors throughout the construction period. All businesses, restaurants, storefronts, and public spaces will remain open and accessible.  Bay Street will be open to pedestrian and vehicle traffic and parking.  With some modification as needed, all regularly scheduled holiday events, including Night on the Town and the Christmas Parade, will continue as planned.

“The City is committed to doing whatever we can to minimize the impact of this intersection closure to commerce downtown,” said City Manager Scott Marshall. “No holiday events will be canceled, and our downtown will remain vibrant as always, if not more so given initiatives the City will assist with in working with our downtown merchants and restauranteurs.”

Detour Plan & Signage Coming Soon
 A full detour map and traffic plan will be shared with the public ahead of the road closure. The City will install extensive signage to help drivers navigate alternate routes, guide pedestrians safely through the area, and maintain access to parking throughout downtown.

Community Input Matters
 The City extends its thanks to all stakeholders who attended the recent public meetings, submitted feedback online and asked thoughtful questions during the project discussions. 

Watch our social media for continued updates as the project moves along and Thank You for your patience as we make these transformative upgrades to our City’s infrastructure. As always, please, SHOP LOCAL!

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