Aiken, S.C., October 21, 2025
News Summary
Aiken, S.C. is advancing with the Powderhouse Road Connector Project to alleviate traffic congestion on Whiskey Road. The project aims to divert traffic from East Pine Log Road, particularly during peak hours. With funding of over $38 million, construction is currently 30% complete and is expected to be finished by mid-2026, potentially reducing Whiskey Road traffic by up to 18%. Local officials emphasize proactive planning to address growing traffic issues, showcasing the project’s significance for the community.
Aiken, S.C. – Powderhouse Road Connector Project Set to Alleviate Traffic Congestion by 2026
Aiken, S.C. is moving forward with a significant infrastructure project aimed at improving traffic conditions on Whiskey Road. The Powderhouse Road Connector Project has commenced, with the intention of reducing congestion by diverting traffic from East Pine Log Road, particularly during peak hours and school dismissal times. City officials assert that the connector could alleviate some of the existing traffic woes as early as next year.
The need for the connector project was underscored during a recent incident where a crash on Whiskey Road near Hitchcock Drive resulted in a four-hour delay for clearing the scene. Local business owner Layton Woody described the accident as substantial, reflecting the area’s ongoing challenges with traffic flow. At the same time, the Jessye Norman School of the Arts hosted an event celebrating local talent, further showcasing the vibrant community that faces these traffic issues.
According to Stuart Bedenbaugh, manager for the City of Aiken, the completed connector is projected to reduce traffic on Whiskey Road between East Pine Log Road and Powderhouse Road by up to 18% at full build-out. Hubert Walton, general manager of Mattress Man, noted a marked increase in congestion due to local growth, reinforcing the need for infrastructural improvements.
The project, funded with an estimated cost exceeding $38 million, has received financial backing from various sources, including $8 million from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act as well as additional contributions from the State Infrastructure Bank and Aiken County. With construction of Phase I currently 30% complete, the expected completion date is set for mid-2026. Phase II is anticipated to begin shortly before Phase I wraps up and will last an additional three years.
Officials conducted a traffic study in 2022, revealing that Whiskey Road was 17% over capacity just north of the East Gate Drive intersection. Approximately 45,000 cars traverse the Whiskey Road intersection daily, making it one of the busiest in Aiken County. This surge in traffic can be attributed to the presence of popular local businesses and the road serving as a primary route for commuters and visitors alike.
The connector will connect Whiskey Road at East Gate Drive/Oak Grove Road, improving traffic flow at Powderhouse Road near the junction with Old Powderhouse Road. The connector project is divided into two phases: the first phase connects Whiskey Road with Centennial Drive (nicknamed the South Centennial Connector), while the second phase will extend this connection to Powderhouse Road.
Local officials, including Mayor Pro Tempore Ed Girardeau and S.C. Sen. Tom Young Jr., have emphasized the importance of proactive planning for traffic alleviation. In a recent study session, the name Tribute Parkway was selected for the connector, with its roundabouts honoring fallen officers Scotty Richardson and Sandy Rogers. Aiken’s community looks forward to the potential reduction in daily traffic interruptions and the increased attractiveness of the area for visitors.
Key Project Facts
- Project Name: Powderhouse Road Connector Project
- Location: Aiken, S.C.
- Projected Cost: Over $38 million
- Funding Sources: $8 million from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, State Infrastructure Bank, and Aiken County
- Traffic Reduction: Up to 18% at full build-out
- Daily Traffic Volume: 45,000 cars at Whiskey Road intersection
- Completion of Phase I: Expected mid-2026
- Construction Progress: Currently 30% complete
- Second Phase Duration: Approximately 3 years
FAQ
What is the Powderhouse Road Connector Project?
Aiken, S.C. is moving forward with a significant infrastructure project aimed at improving traffic conditions on Whiskey Road. The Powderhouse Road Connector Project has commenced, with the intention of reducing congestion by diverting traffic from East Pine Log Road, particularly during peak hours and school dismissal times.
When is the expected completion date for the project?
With construction of Phase I currently 30% complete, the expected completion date is set for mid-2026.
How much traffic does Whiskey Road handle daily?
Approximately 45,000 cars traverse the Whiskey Road intersection daily, making it one of the busiest roads in Aiken County.
What are the funding sources for the project?
The project has an estimated cost exceeding $38 million, funded through various sources, including $8 million from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and additional funds from the State Infrastructure Bank and Aiken County.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Comic Book Artist Chuck Brown Hosts Creative Event at USC Aiken
Tragic Traffic Accident Claims Life of Young Girl in Aiken County
Man Sentenced for Hatchet Attack Over Cellphone Dispute
Aiken City Council Candidates Discuss Key Issues in Forum
Discovering the Hidden Depths of the Delaware River
Legal Challenge to Trump’s Tariffs at Supreme Court
Comic Artist Chuck Brown to Speak at Etherredge Center
Four Injured in Two-Car Crash on Pine Log Road
Tragic Motorcycle Crash Claims Life in Aiken County
Aiken Breaks Ground on Powderhouse Connector Project
Additional Resources
- WRDW: Powderhouse Road Connector Aims to Reduce Congestion by 18%
- Post and Courier: Aiken Powderhouse Connector Groundbreaking
- WJBF: Aiken Leaders Discuss Name for New Powderhouse Connector
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Traffic Management
- Google Search: Powderhouse Road Connector Project
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.
