Aiken County, October 7, 2025

News Summary

Aiken County, South Carolina will receive an $8 million federal grant for the urgent replacement of the Old Vaucluse Road bridge, which collapsed in a fiery incident. Construction is set to begin in November 2025, with completion expected by Spring 2026. The federal funding from the Federal Highway Administration aims to restore critical transportation safety in the area following the incident earlier this year.

Aiken County, South Carolina Receives $8 Million Federal Grant for Replacement of Old Vaucluse Road Bridge Following Fiery Collapse

The South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT) has been allocated $8 million in federal funding from the Federal Highway Administration for the emergency replacement of the Old Vaucluse Road bridge over Interstate 20 in Aiken County. This prompt funding response comes in the wake of a catastrophic incident that led to the collapse of the bridge earlier this year.

Construction crews have already begun mobilizing for the replacement project, with work on the new bridge scheduled to officially commence in November 2025. The project is expected to be completed by Spring 2026, marking a swift development aimed at restoring safe transport routes in the area.

The original Old Vaucluse Road bridge collapsed on June 14, 2025, after a collision involving a gasoline tanker. The impact resulted in the tanker catching fire beneath the bridge, ultimately leading to its structural failure. Despite this unfortunate incident, SCDOT crews managed to reopen Interstate 20 in less than 36 hours, effectively minimizing traffic disruption during a critical time.

Secretary of Transportation Justin Powell expressed gratitude for the expedited federal response, which has enabled the swift approval of funds for the bridge replacement. This project emphasizes SCDOT’s commitment to ensuring safety and efficiency in transportation through South Carolina.

In preparation for the construction, SCDOT has issued a caution to drivers to reduce speed and remain vigilant while navigating work zones. Such measures are critical to maintaining safety for both highway users and construction personnel during this interim period.

Project Details

• Funding Amount: $8 million
• Federal Source: Federal Highway Administration
• Start Date: November 2025
• Completion Date: Spring 2026
• Previous Bridge Collapse Date: June 14, 2025
• Time to Reopen Interstate 20: Less than 36 hours

Background Context

The Old Vaucluse Road bridge was a significant connection over Interstate 20 for residents of Aiken County and surrounding areas. Its sudden collapse highlighted vulnerabilities within existing infrastructure and the need for prompt intervention to uphold public safety. Funds from the federal government will facilitate a rapid response to restoring this vital transport link, allowing the community to regain normalcy in their daily commutes and activities.

The SCDOT’s proactive measures extend beyond the current project, aiming to enhance transportation systems throughout South Carolina consistently and with regard to public safety.

FAQ

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Additional Resources

• Post and Courier: Federal Funding for Old Vaucluse Road Bridge Replacement
• Wikipedia: Bridge Collapses
• WFXG: SCDOT Awarded $8 Million for Bridge Replacement
• Google Search: Old Vaucluse Road Bridge
• WJBF: SCDOT Receives Federal Funds for Bridge Replacement
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Bridge
• WLTX: SCDOT Awarded $8M for Bridge
• Google News: SCDOT

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.