South Carolina Highway 153 in Easley may soon extend beyond its present end at U.S. 123 as the Greenville-Pickens Area Transportation Study (GPATS) has added a HWY 153 extension to its long-range transportation plan.
GPATS is a funding organization that assists counties and cities with major transportation developments.
SC-153 provides a transportation connection between Interstate 85 and U.S. 123 and has been considered for development for some time.
“It’s been on the drawing board in one form or another for many years,” said Easley City Administrator, Fox Simons.
The 153 extension is a two-phased project.
Phase one will extend the state highway beyond U.S. 123 and behind the Wal-Mart in Easley where it will end at Prince Perry Rd, however, construction is not expected for some time.
“Because of funding, it will be 2014 before shovels are in the dirt. We are still in the beginning phases of the project,” said Simons.
Phase two will see SC- 153 extended further beyond Prince Perry Road and end at Saluda Dam Road.
“This area is ready for economic growth. This extension will further enhance growth opportunities and also relieve some of the congestion that is on 123,” said Simons. “It is a multi-faceted benefit.”
The new road will be a 2-lane road, with limited access, and left turn lanes.
The project is in its preliminary engineering status.
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