Crews direct traffic to limit backup in south Columbia

Columbia Public Works is conducting a traffic test in South Columbia in an effort to help traffic flow on Forum Boulevard.

The first traffic test was from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. Wednesday. Police officers directed traffic at the Fairview and Chapel Hill Road intersection, as well as at Chapel Hill Road and Limerick Lane.

On Forum Boulevard at the Wilson’s Fitness Center, drivers could only turn right into the complex and turn right out of the complex to get on Forum Boulevard from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.

“Overall, I think it went really well,” said Officer Scott Decker with the Columbia Police Department. “We were able to keep east and westbound traffic [on Chapel Hill Road] flowing pretty well, which is going to help relieve the backed up traffic on Forum.”

Decker said the heaviest traffic was around 5:30 p.m.

Drivers did experience some delays, but some think this could be a temporary answer to traffic issues for the time being.

“It’s going to be hard work for a police officer the warmer the temperatures get, but it’s probably the best solution,” said Columbia resident Tanya Heath.

Other drivers agree, but know this will cause some frustration for others.

Decker had some advice for drivers who travel the area.

“Be patient,” he said. “Everybody has a place to go, we all have appointments to get to, so just allow yourself a little bit of extra time to get there.”

The second traffic test will be Thursday from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. If Columbia Public Works decides this is an effective temporary solution, these changes will be implemented until the construction project on Scott Boulevard is completed in August.