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Construction set to begin in 2026

Efforts to alleviate traffic congestion at the intersection of Long Point Road and I-526 in Mount Pleasant are now fully funded, with construction expected to begin in the summer of 2026.

This $325 million project, led by the South Carolina Department of Transportation, aims to improve the flow of commuter and freight traffic while addressing longstanding concerns from local residents.

The busy corridor, which serves as the only access point to the Wando Welch Terminal on Long Point Road, was awarded a $195 million federal grant in October 2024. The grant covers the project’s remaining costs allowing it to move forward after years of planning.

“The purpose of the project is to move traffic, including freight traffic, safely and efficiently through the area and reduce the interaction between freight and commuter traffic,” said Hannah Robinson, SCDOT media relations manager.

Key features of the project include:

● A dedicated flyover for trucks traveling to and from the port.

● Widening I-526 from four to six lanes over approximately seven miles.

● Noise-reducing sound walls to address community concerns.

● Retaining the left-hand turn at Belle Hall Parkway.

● Improved ramps and new access points to Long Point Road.

● A multi-use path for pedestrians and cyclists.

According to Robinson, “Construction is anticipated to start in the summer of 2026 and is estimated to take 3.5 years.”

Initial plans faced pushback from residents concerned about noise pollution and traffic disruption. SCDOT responded by redesigning the project to reroute the truck exit point farther from neighborhoods and incorporate sound walls to reduce noise.

“We got everything out of the redesign that we wanted,” Mount Pleasant Mayor Will Haynie said. “SCDOT listened to our residents and produced a design that protects our local quality of life while maximizing the positive impacts on traffic.”

South Carolina Ports President and CEO Barbara Melvin emphasized the importance of the project for freight movement and community welfare in a recent press release. “This new roadway will also separate cargo-carrying truck traffic from residential traffic, further benefiting surrounding communities.”

The project’s full funding includes $195 million from the federal grant, $65 million in federal dollars already designated for South Carolina, and another $65 million in state funds. U.S. Congresswoman Nancy Mace, who helped secure the federal grant, highlighted its significance in a public statement.

“With the $195 million we helped secure, improvements to the I-526/Long Point Road interchange are moving forward,” Mace said. “We are always looking for ways to put the Lowcountry first, solve problems, and work with local leaders to keep our neighborhoods connected and protected.”

The project has also received environmental approval from federal and state agencies. Permits are expected to be finalized by winter 2025.

The project will move into its design-build phase in 2025, with visible construction beginning the following year. For more details, visit the project website at 526lcclongpoint.com.

Here’s a New Year’s resolution for public school students across South Carolina: Turn off your cell phones, tuck away your smartwatches, and keep them out of sight.

When students return to class after winter break, stricter cell phone policies will be enforced across all 77 public school districts statewide.

This decision follows a state budget proviso enacted last spring, which threatened to withhold funding from school districts that didn’t implement a ban by the new year.

Starting Jan. 7, the ban will require K-12 students to keep all personal electronic devices – including cell phones, smartwatches, tablets, and gaming devices – turned off and stored out of sight during the school day.

The policy still allows students to bring phones to school, but they must be turned off and stored in lockers or bookbags from first bell to dismissal.

Exceptions will be made for students with medical needs, those on IEPs or 504 plans, and members of emergency organizations.

South Carolina Superintendent of Education Ellen Weaver called the policy a “freedom to focus.” A survey conducted by the Department of Education found 92% of teachers support such restrictions, citing the negative impact of phones on academic performance and mental health.

Education department spokesperson Jason Raven, explained, “This is the most practical step we can take to refocus student learning, address discipline issues, hopefully improve mental health outcomes, and support our teachers.”

Berkeley County School District officials are preparing for the change. On Dec. 2, members of the Berkeley County School Board approved a model policy to comply with the new state guidelines, although the district is still finalizing its administrative rules for enforcement.

“The purpose of the policy is to create a phone-free school environment that fosters a positive learning experience free from electronic distractions,” said chief administrator Shameka Washington.

The policy defines a personal electronic device as any device used for communication, internet access, gaming, or recording, including but not limited to phones, smartwatches, tablets, and gaming devices.

The plan defines access as holding, wearing, or using a device for communication, internet access, gaming, recording or any other function commonly associated with devices.

Washington noted that outdated disciplinary measures, such as confiscating devices for extended periods, may be replaced with more traditional consequences, like in-school or out-of-school suspension.

Board chair Sally Wofford acknowledged concerns over managing confiscated devices.

“I don’t want principals or teachers having to keep up with whose phone got taken. I agree it should be disciplinary – write-ups, ISS, – but I don’t want to be the cell phone holder for $1,000 devices.”

Washington stated that the current disciplinary measures for electronic devices are outdated and require updating.

“We need to go back and write a more current administrative rule that will align with the goals of our district.”

BCSD’s rule will also address habitual violations, potentially barring repeat offenders from bringing devices to campus, though specifics are still under discussion.

Once in effect on Jan. 7, the policy will mark a new chapter for South Carolina schools, teachers, and students.

Feeding of the Multitudes founders serve community for decades

Tucked away in Huger, South Carolina, there’s a couple on a mission to answer the biblical call to “feed the multitudes,” ensuring that no one in their community goes hungry.

Rev. Dr. Levi Wright and his wife, Janet Wright, are not just handing out food – they’re spreading hope, kindness, and a whole lot of love through Feeding of the Multitudes. What started with a few bags of groceries has blossomed into a powerhouse operation that serves over 600 families each month, feeding over 2,600 individuals in the process.

From driving a 24-foot truck full of fresh food to distributing meals in their Sunday best, the Wrights are proving that with a little faith and a lot of heart, you can change the world – one meal at a time.

Founded in 2002 and officially recognized as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit in 2015, FOTM has grown from serving 16 families to distributing over 300,000 pounds of food annually. Distributions occur every Saturday and Sunday at 3 p.m. at the pantry located at 2130 Cainhoy Road.

“Inspired by the biblical account of Jesus feeding the multitudes with two fish and five loaves, we founded Feeding of the Multitudes with a mission rooted in faith and compassion,” Rev. Levi said. “Our organization provides a substantial amount of food at minimal cost to the communities of Cainhoy, Wando, and Huger areas with significant food insecurity and high need.”

Feeding of the Multitudes addresses the pressing needs of a community where food insecurity is prevalent.

“Our organization delivers a significant quantity of food year-round to our predominantly Black low-income community. We provide over 600 families and 2,600 to 2,800 individuals with life-sustaining, healthy food products – produce, meat, dairy, bread, and pantry items – weekly, every Saturday and Sunday,” Rev. Levi said.

“We serve low-income families, social security dependent senior citizens, military veterans, and families with children. Notably, 91% of Cainhoy Elementary School children come from families classified as living in poverty.”

In an effort to “cancel hunger,” the Wrights rise early each weekend, leaving behind their Lincoln Navigator to drive a 24-foot Freightliner refrigerator truck, picking up donations from stores such as Trader Joe’s, Publix, and Sam’s Club.

Without taking a paycheck, they handle everything from sorting the food to distribution, often still dressed for church as they balance their roles as food pantry leaders and ministry figures.

“We collect donations from local grocery stores like Sam’s Club, Trader Joe’s, and Publix, ensuring the community receives fresh and nutritious food,” Janet said.

In just the past three months, over 100 new families from Berkeley and Charleston counties have joined the FOTM distribution program. The Wrights and their team of 10 to 12 dedicated volunteers, work tirelessly to distribute food items, serving 200 to 250 families each weekend.

“We hear stories from single mothers who no longer have to send their children to bed or school hungry and seniors who can now afford medication because of the food we provide,” Rev. Levi said.

It’s testimonials like these that keep the Huger couple and their volunteers serving every weekend.

Today, the organization thrives through contributions from partners like the Lowcountry Food Bank, Thrivent, The Daniel Island Foundation, ONE Fellowship Church, God’s Way Outreach, Nucor Steel, Coastal Community Foundation, South Carolina Port Authority, Huger/Wando Men’s Coalition, and several other local donors.

Janet highlighted how essential these local contributions are to the Cainhoy community, saying, “without agencies like Feeding of the Multitudes, the 40 million pounds of food that the Lowcountry Food Bank collects annually would go to waste.”

Additionally, FOTM participates in the Fresh Express Program, delivering fresh produce into the community, and partners with the Meals Connect program to pass out excess grocery food packages to those in need, preventing further food waste.

The Wrights attribute their success to the unwavering support of volunteers and donors.

“The work we do is only possible because of the generous hearts of our volunteers and donors,” Janet said.

Beyond FOTM food distributions, the Wrights juggle additional responsibilities. Janet Wright owns Clements Ferry Alterations Shoppe, while Rev. Dr. Levi serves as the senior pastor of New Hope Missionary Baptist Church in Mount Pleasant. Despite their demanding schedules, they remain steadfast in their mission to serve others.

“We hope our efforts embody the spirit of the parable that inspired us, proving that a little faith and a lot of love can indeed go a long way,” Janet said.

For more information on the nonprofit or volunteering, visit the Feeding of the Multitudes Facebook page or contact Dr. Rev. Levi and Janet Wright directly at 843-696-3720 or 843-697-0551.

Donations can be made by sending checks to Feeding of the Multitudes at 1060 Red Hill Road, Huger, SC 29450.