Carolina Bays Parkway, Phase III

Carolina Bays Parkway, Phase III (SC Route 31) from SC Route 544 to SC Route 707, Horry County, was one of the most complex in South Carolina. Knowing there were already plans previously designed by others and an approved environmental permit in hand, our team knew there was a better way forward and presented a value engineering (VE) total redesign study during our shortlist presentation which showed $40 million savings.

We reevaluated the environmental impact statement and segmented the last four miles of SC 31 while fusing it with the widening of SC 707 as a single stand-alone project. The new project required an environmental assessment and a permit resubmittal, which showed avoidance and minimization of environmental, residential, and commercial impacts. The VE combined 3,000 feet of twin structure into one single bridge and relocated alignments and profiles, which saved millions that helped offset shortfalls on other projects within the RIDE Program. Our team’s innovative approach resulted in a better design, and reduced impacts on the environment.