Per a press release from SCDOT, the Old Kings Highway Roundabout is being constructed in Georgetown, S.C. This project aims to enhance traffic flow and improve safety at this busy intersection, which has been a point of contention for local drivers due to frequent congestion and accidents. The implementation of a roundabout is part of a broader initiative to modernize traffic management in the area.
South Carolina has about 50 roundabouts completed that work like the Old Kings Highway Roundabout. These roundabouts have proven to reduce the number of severe accidents by 30% compared to traditional intersections, according to various traffic studies. The design allows for continuous movement of vehicles, thereby diminishing the likelihood of high-impact collisions that often occur at stop signs and traffic signals.
Benefits of the Old Kings Highway Roundabout
Columbia, S.C. (March 24, 2025) – The South Carolina Department of Transportation will convert the intersection of Riverwood Avenue and Old Kings Highway in Georgetown County to a roundabout beginning April 3. This conversion is expected to streamline traffic and reduce delays during peak hours. The decision to implement a roundabout was based on extensive traffic studies that indicated a need for improvements in this area, considering the increasing volume of vehicles as the population continues to grow.
SCDOT has several resources on roundabouts that can be found here. We encourage drivers to pay attention to signs when driving through a roundabout, as proper navigation involves yielding to traffic already circulating within the roundabout. This helps maintain a steady flow of vehicles and reduces the chances of accidents. Understanding the right-of-way rules is essential for all road users, including pedestrians and cyclists.
SCDOT recently made a video explaining how to navigate roundabouts. This video can be seen in our broadcast above. Many have reported that once they became accustomed to the new traffic patterns, they found the roundabouts to be more efficient and less stressful than traditional intersections.
SCDOT says the Old Kings Highway Roundabout is safer than the current traffic stop. Studies have shown that roundabouts can lead to a 40% reduction in overall collisions. This safety improvement is largely attributed to the lower speeds at which vehicles enter and exit roundabouts, as well as the elimination of head-on and left-turn collisions, which are often more severe.
The Old Kings Highway Roundabout represents a significant enhancement to traffic management in Georgetown. It reflects a growing trend towards modernizing infrastructure to accommodate the needs of increasingly busy roadways while emphasizing safety for all users. As the community continues to grow, such improvements will play a crucial role in maintaining an efficient transportation network.
As construction progresses on the Old Kings Highway roundabout, local residents and businesses may experience temporary disruptions. SCDOT has outlined plans to minimize these impacts, including detours and signage to guide traffic safely around the construction zone. Community meetings have been held to inform the public about the project timeline and what to expect during construction.
Moreover, the roundabout design contributes to a more pedestrian-friendly environment. With dedicated crosswalks and shorter crossing distances, pedestrians can navigate the area more safely. In many cases, roundabouts also improve accessibility for cyclists, providing them with a designated space to navigate through the intersection without the hazards presented by traditional traffic signals.
