South Carolina Department of Transportation’s South Main Street Road Diet turned an overbuilt urban roadway into a safer, more accessible, and multimodal civic corridor. The $25 million project reshaped South Main Street in Columbia – near the State Capitol and the University of South Carolina – by right‑sizing a five‑lane roadway that exceeded traffic demand and compromised safety, accessibility, and the corridor’s historic character. Before construction, long pedestrian crossing distances, limited Americans with Disabilities Act‑compliant facilities, and minimal accommodations for bicyclists discouraged walking and cycling. Aging infrastructure, increased activity near the university, and evolving security needs around the State Capitol further highlighted the need for change. The project’s goal was to modernize the corridor while restoring its function as a people‑focused public space.

By reducing the roadway from five lanes to two, the project calmed traffic and significantly shortened crossing distances. New ADA‑compliant sidewalks, enhanced crosswalks, protected bicycle infrastructure, and improved lighting created safer and more comfortable travel options for people of all ages and abilities. Streetscape and landscaping improvements enhanced the public realm, making the corridor more inviting for everyday use. The revitalized corridor now better links the State Capitol, the university, nearby neighborhoods, and local businesses, reinforcing South Main Street’s role as a civic and cultural destination. Although not directly funded through the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, the project strongly aligns with IIJA priorities by improving safety, accessibility, and Complete Streets outcomes – delivering a safer, more vibrant, and community‑centered corridor for residents, students, and visitors.