Traffic still slowed on I-26 because of road work, sinkhole

JEDBURG, S.C. (AP/WCIV) - Motorists traveling Interstate 26 toward Charleston are still being told to expect delays as work continues to repair damage from a sinkhole.

James Law with the South Carolina Department of Transportation says at least for the next three days, a lane in the eastbound lanes near mile marker 192 will be closed off and on.{}

Law said crews had to pump water out again before they could begin research on how to fix the sinkhole.

The sinkhole was first reported July 5 in the eastbound passing lane between I-95 and Charleston at mile marker 192 near Jedburg Road.

That lane remains closed, and electronic signs on both I-26 and I-95 are advising motorists about the work and expected delays.

Last week, traffic was backed up for miles in both directions as both the passing lanes had to be closed so crews could work on the repairs.

The problem started when fast moving water washed out soil beneath a drainage culvert that was being repaired.

Right-hand lane closures were scheduled for the eastbound and westbound sides of I-26 at mile marker 193 for road repairs. The work was supposed to only last from July 11 to July 15 between the hours of 8 a.m. and 8 p.m.

The culverts are two concrete 10 x10 boxes under both sides of the interstate.

In Dorchester County, another washout has caused a hole 7 feet wide and 10 feet deep, closing Wire Road near Reevesville.