Orangeburg Railroad Corner
Pedestrian Bridge and Improvement Feasibility & Planning Study
What’s This All About?
The City of Orangeburg is planning something exciting – a new pedestrian bridge that will safely connect the community. This bridge will make it easier and safer for students, residents, and visitors to walk between our amazing college campuses, community amenities, and the heart of downtown.
Why it Matters?
This project is about more than just a bridge. It’s about:
· Making it safer to walk over Magnolia Street, the Norfolk Southern Railroad tracks, and Boulevard Street
· Help people get to school, shopping, housing, and work more safely
· Supporting future growth like student housing, shops, and museums
· Creating a more connected and vibrant Orangeburg
· Building a welcoming landmark that enhances community beautification and gateway to our two Universities: South Carolina State University and Claflin University
What’s Happening Now?
We are in the planning and feasibility study phase. That means we are:
· Looking at current conditions and gathering data
· Gearing up for community talks and surveys to hear your ideas
· Exploring different design options and locations
· Creating early drawings and cost estimates
How You Can Get Involved?
We want your input! Here’s how you can join the conversation:
· Use this project website to track announcements on upcoming meetings
· University students – We will be visiting campus in September
· Public Engagement – We will be hosting a meeting in November
· Use this project website to participate in an online survey – COMING SOON IN OCTOBER
· Use this project website to stay up to date on project materials and outcomes
Timeline
Claflin University
Student Center
October 22, 2025
10:30 am to 1:30 pm
400 Magnolia Street
Orangeburg, SC 29115
South Carolina State University
On Campus in Late 2025 (TBD)
Online Community Survey
Open from Mid-October through Early January 2025-2026 (TBD)
Public Meeting
TBD
Who’s Behind the Project?
This effort is led by the City of Orangeburg, with planning and design support from AECOM Technical Service, Inc. We’re working closely with local universities, businesses, community leaders, and community members so this project reflects what Orangeburg needs and values. This project is 100% funded by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity (RAISE) grant.
Vision, Goals, and Objectives
Vision: Proposed pedestrian bridge in downtown Orangeburg.
Goals: Provide a safer connection between South Carolina State and Claflin Universities to historical downtown Orangeburg.
Objectives: Improve pedestrian safety, provide increased access to the City’s public transit system and improve access to cultural assets and institutions of higher learning. The pedestrian bridge is expected to facilitate better connectivity with future planned development that offers student housing, retail opportunities, a parking deck, a museum and other essential services.
Project Schedule
The schedule(s) shown reflect the feasibility study portion of the project. Design is expected to commence in 2026. Construction is anticipated in 2027.
Connect
FAQ
Why is this project important for Orangeburg?
Railroad Corner has historically been a dividing point between the universities and the downtown business district. The bridge and associated improvements will help unify the city, enhance mobility, and support economic revitalization efforts.
Who is funding the pedestrian bridge and redevelopment project?
The project is funded through a $22.7 million federal grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation’s RAISE program, part of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.
What other improvements are included in the Railroad Corner redevelopment?
In addition to the pedestrian bridge, the project includes a multimodal transit hub, electric vehicle charging stations, public parking, student housing, commercial spaces, and the new Cecil Williams Civil Rights Museum.
How will the pedestrian bridge improve safety?
The bridge will eliminate the need for pedestrians to cross busy roads and railroad tracks at street level, reducing the risk of accidents and improving walkability in the area.
When will construction begin and how long will it take?
Construction is expected to begin in 2027.
How will this project affect traffic and transit in the area?
The project includes improvements to public transit access and parking infrastructure, which are expected to ease congestion and provide alternative transportation options for residents and students.
Where can I find more information or get involved?
Stay informed by visiting this site frequently for updates, documents, public engagement notices. You can also share your thoughts about the project by providing your information in the Connect feature above.