Interstate 85 Corridor Study to Set Stage for Upstate Transportation Infrastructure Improvements

In 2026, SCDOT will conduct a comprehensive, planning-level transportation study of the Interstate 85 Corridor, setting the stage for significant transportation infrastructure improvements in the Anderson-Greenville-Spartanburg area. The study will identify a range of potential solutions for current and future mobility and safety issues in light of continued regional traffic volume growth.

In partnership with Upstate regional planning organizations and industry partners, SCDOT will conduct the transportation study using current and future traffic data analysis and modeling as well as input from transportation stakeholders and members of the public.

Secretary of Transportation Justin Powell said, “As Upstate South Carolina continues to grow and prosper, SCDOT is committed to working alongside local and regional partners to ensure the I-85 corridor will support the success of this region well into the future. This study provides a unique opportunity to work collaboratively to identify transportation needs and develop strategies that can be prioritized and implemented.”

The Interstate 85 Corridor Study area is located along I-85 from US 29 (Exit 34) to SC 85 (Exit 69). The study area covers 35 miles of interstate highway, includes 18 interchanges, and assesses major intersecting roads that influence the operational efficiency of the interstate.

Study partners include the Spartanburg Area Transportation Study, Greenville-Pickens Area Transportation Study, Appalachian Council of Governments, GSP International Airport and the SC Ports Authority.

Public Comment Opportunity

SCDOT seeks public comment on the action to amend the 2024-2033 Statewide Transportation Improvement Program (STIP) to include the Interstate 85 Corridor Study. SCDOT will receive public comment for the 21-day period from December 5 to 26, 2025.

Visit scdot.org/projects/public-comment-notices to view all STIP Comment Notices and submit comments online. To assist those who do not have internet access, a printed copy of this press release and any supporting information is available for public review and comment at any of the South Carolina Department of Transportation District Offices and the South Carolina Councils of Government Offices.

Comments will be accepted through December 26, 2025 and should be submitted to Ginny Jones, Public Involvement Director, SCDOT Office of Public Engagement, 955 Park Street, P.O. Box 191, Columbia, SC 29202. Comments may also be submitted online or by email to [email protected]. Please note, any information provided, including names and addresses, is subject to disclosure under the Freedom of Information Act.