News Summary
South Carolina has received federal funding to expedite the reconstruction of the Old Vaucluse Road overpass bridge on Interstate 20 after its collapse due to a tanker incident. Governor McMaster’s executive order designated the failure as an emergency, allowing fast-tracked reconstruction efforts. Following the collapse, major road closures impacted traffic, and while efforts are underway to restore access, full reopening may take up to 12 months. The incident highlights vulnerabilities in the state’s transportation infrastructure.
Aiken County, South Carolina – South Carolina has secured federal funding to expedite the reconstruction of the Old Vaucluse Road overpass bridge on Interstate 20, which collapsed following a catastrophic incident involving a gasoline tanker on June 14, 2025. The approval for federal assistance came swiftly after Governor Henry McMaster signed an executive order designating the bridge collapse as an emergency under federal standards, paving the way for faster reconstruction efforts.
The incident occurred when a 2023 Dodge Charger collided with the gasoline tanker, igniting a fire that resulted in the total destruction of the bridge. As a consequence of the emergency situation, the South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT) has been authorized to proceed with the necessary paperwork to initiate expedited procurement for rebuilding the bridge.
On the same day as the bridge collapse, another vehicle incident involving an overturned 18-wheeler obstructed the Interstate 20 westbound ramp at Exit 5, compounding the traffic disruption caused by the bridge failure. Major road closures were implemented in both directions of Interstate 20 between Exit 11 and Exit 18, severely impacting local and through traffic. While the interstate was reopened the following day, the consequences of the incident are expected to linger.
Despite the urgent efforts to reconstruct the bridge, officials estimate that it could take up to 12 months before full road access is restored. The extensive damage and the need for careful planning and construction emphasize the serious challenges faced in such emergency responses. The SCDOT is actively coordinating the necessary actions to minimize delays while ensuring safety and compliance with federal guidelines during the rebuilding process.
The collapse of the Old Vaucluse Road overpass is particularly significant in light of its location on a major interstate route. The repercussions of the collapse extend beyond immediate traffic disruptions; there are broader implications for safety and infrastructure in the region. The bridge played a crucial role in supporting traffic flow over Interstate 20, and its loss highlights the vulnerabilities within the state’s transportation network.
In addition to the bridge reconstruction, the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles announced plans to roll out new driver’s licenses in the fall. This initiative, while unrelated to the bridge efforts, demonstrates ongoing innovations and updates within governmental services across the state.
Overall, the swift mobilization of federal resources, along with state leadership’s decisive actions, reflects a concerted effort to address infrastructure failures and restore vital transportation routes in South Carolina. As the process unfolds, residents and travelers can expect ongoing updates regarding both the bridge reconstruction and traffic management strategies during this challenging period.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Governor McMaster Announces Replacement of I-20 Overpass Bridge
Governor McMaster Activates Emergency Order for Bridge Replacement
South Carolina Governor Fast-Tracks I-20 Overpass Replacement
Overpass Collapses After Gasoline Tanker Crash in Aiken County
Interstate 20 Reopens After Bridge Collapse in Aiken County
Interstate 20 Reopens After Major Aiken County Accident
I-20 Reopens After Old Vaucluse Road Overpass Collapse
Massive Gasoline Truck Crash Causes Fire and Bridge Collapse
Aiken Welcomes New Fairfield Street Bridge After Long Closure
Additional Resources
- WRDW: Federal Funds Help Rebuild Old Vaucluse Road Overpass
- Wikipedia: Bridge Replacement
- WIS TV: Gov. McMaster Issues Executive Order to Speed Up I-20 Bridge Replacement
- Google Search: South Carolina I-20 Bridge Collapse
- WYFF4: I-20 Overpass Collapse Replacement South Carolina
- Google Scholar: Interstate Bridge Collapses
- WJBF: Gov. McMaster Issues Order to Expedite I-20 Overpass Bridge Replacement
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Infrastructure and Transportation
- ABC News4: Gov. McMaster Issues Executive Order for I-20 Bridge Replacement
- Google News: South Carolina Road Closures
Author: STAFF HERE AIKEN
The AIKEN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAiken.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Aiken, Aiken County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Aiken Horse Show, Aiken Bluegrass Festival, and polo matches at Whitney Field. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Aiken Chamber of Commerce and the Aiken County Historical Museum, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and tourism that power the local economy such as Bridgestone and the Aiken County Visitors Center. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
