Extended lane shift and traffic pattern changes coming to Assembly Street beginning January 28
January 29, 2026
Beginning Wednesday, January 28, 2026, motorists traveling northbound on Assembly Street between Washington Street and Hampton Street (1400 block of Assembly Street) should expect lane shifts and traffic pattern changes associated with construction of the oLiv development.
As part of the updated traffic configuration, the right-hand northbound lane on Assembly Street, along with the parking meters adjacent to the construction site, will be closed. To maintain traffic flow, parking spaces next to the median will be converted into a travel lane, allowing three active northbound lanes to remain open on Assembly Street.
In addition, left turns onto Hampton Street from northbound Assembly Street will not be permitted under the new traffic pattern.
Initial work is anticipated to begin at 9:30 a.m. on Wednesday, January 28, with the South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT) and the City of Columbia Traffic Engineering Division painting new lane offsets. This work is expected to be completed by late afternoon on Wednesday.
New lane markings will be installed at the intersection of Washington Street and Assembly Street and in the northbound lanes at the intersection of Hampton Street and Assembly Street.
During the lane painting process, traffic signals in the affected area will be placed on flashing red, and traffic officers will be on site to assist with traffic control. Motorists should expect minor delays and are encouraged to use caution while traveling through the area.
As construction advances, additional street closures adjacent to the site are anticipated and are expected to be in place by Friday, February 6, 2026. At that time, both westbound lanes of Washington Street between Main Street and Assembly Street will be closed and converted to a one-way traffic pattern. In addition, the right eastbound lane of Hampton Street between Main Street and Assembly Street will be closed.
These traffic changes are anticipated to remain in place for approximately two years as construction progresses.
Drivers are encouraged to follow posted signage, remain vigilant, and plan accordingly.
*Please see the attached graphic for a visual overview of the traffic changes.*
