There are several ways to lessen congestion on US 17 without widening the road. The study team looked at different TDM strategies that would encourage those who commute within the study area to minimize congestion. Strategies include:

1. Ridesharing (Carpooling) 

Private ridesharing companies such as Scoop and Waze Carpool offer an on-demand ridesharing app and in-app cost splitting services. These services connect you with people who share a similar commute. You simply download the app, input your route, and decide if you would like to be the driver or the passenger. The ridesharing companies will then link you to people who are headed to the same area at the same time. The more people who share rides means the fewer vehicles creating congestion on the road. The County could take on a more active role in promoting the use of ridesharing to reduce the number of vehicles within the study area.

Another way to utilize ridesharing is by schoolpooling. This would involve working with the school district and families to determine if carpooling is a viable option.

2. Traveling at Off-times

Commuters within the study area traveling at the same time cause traffic congestion. Encouraging drivers to not commute during AM or PM peak hours is a way to combat delayed travel times. This strategy involves the County working with employers within the Charleston area to allow for non-traditional start and end times when possible. If more commuters could shift their workday outside the typical 9:00 to 5:00 start and end time, then the study area would see a decrease in traffic congestion.

3. Working from Home

Eliminating the need to commute eliminates the need to sit in traffic. Not everyone can work from home, but if those who can work from home do so regularly, those who have to commute to work would experience less congestion. Even if employees only work a couple of days a week from home, this strategy could help relieve the number of vehicles on the road. The County could encourage employers to allow work from home capabilities when possible.

4. Public Transit

Using public transit is another way for commuters to travel without causing additional congestion. This study looked at several ways the County could make public transit more appealing to those who travel US 17. Please visit the Transit Menu for more information.  

5. Walking or Biking

Commuters who walk or bike to their destination not only reduce congestion, but they also reduce the production of vehicle emissions. The study team has analyzed ways the County could improve safety and promote bike/pedestrian infrastructure. Please visit the Bicycle & Pedestrian Menu for more information.  

We understand that the COVID 19 crises currently discourages people from ride-sharing and using public transit. The study team recognizes that these strategies become more beneficial once people can safely share spaces again. The County will only encourage ride-sharing and public transit use when public safety is not an issue.