Carolina Forest is undergoing significant infrastructure improvements in response to its growing population and development. The mayor and local officials have highlighted several key projects for 2025 aimed at easing congestion and supporting community expansion:
- River Oaks Drive Expansion
- A major project involves widening River Oaks Drive to four lanes with designated turn lanes at key intersections and adding multimodal facilities along the entire length. This $142 million project is critical due to River Oaks Drive’s role as a main thoroughfare connecting several new and established residential communities like Berkshire Forest, Village Oaks, and Traditions at Carolina Forest. The expansion will improve traffic flow and safety for both drivers and pedestrians.
- New High School Construction
- A new public high school, Coastal High School (formerly Coastal Leadership Academy), is slated to open in August 2025 on a 113-acre site off River Oaks Drive. Designed to accommodate around 520 students, this school is expected to provide enhanced education opportunities and is part of the community’s broader growth plan. Traffic and safety measures including new stoplights will accompany the school opening to better manage increased vehicle and bus traffic.
- YMCA Facility Development
- A new YMCA facility is planned at the intersection of River Oaks Drive and Augusta Plantation Drive. The YMCA is collaborating with Tidelands Health to create a community-focused recreational and activity center. Local leaders emphasize that this facility will enhance quality of life by promoting wellness and social engagement among residents.
- New Highway Interchange
- Plans are in place to create a new highway interchange on S.C. 31 designed to reduce congestion on River Oaks Drive and Carolina Forest Boulevard. The interchange will connect Augusta Plantation Drive to Revolutionary War Way to better distribute traffic volumes and support future development.
- Ongoing Road Improvements & Safety Enhancements
- The mayor’s office supports continuous monitoring and upgrades to road infrastructure in response to increased traffic from expanding neighborhoods. These efforts include improved traffic signalization, road widening, and safety campaigns emphasizing accident prevention following recent incidents.
These projects reflect a coordinated strategy to accommodate Carolina Forest’s rapid residential and commercial growth while addressing critical traffic, safety, and community needs.
SOURCES
[1](https://www.vansantrealtygroup.com/blog/status-of-the-river-oaks-drive-expansion-project-and-the-carolina-forest-new-home-communities-being-impacted)…