The time frame for when the State Ports Authority could receive a permit to construct a new terminal in North Charleston might be pushed back.

State and Charleston County officials raised concerns last month that the public wasn't given adequate time to comment on new roads to the terminal.

Connie Gillette, a spokeswoman with the Army Corps of Engineers, said Friday that because the public comment period again had been extended, the Corps was working to determine whether and how the extensions would affect the Corps' ability to render its findings. The Corps was expected to release its Environmental Impact Statement in May and have its final decision ready by August. That decision would include not only whether the port could expand onto the former Navy base in North Charleston but also where new roads would be built to accommodate port-related traffic.

"Right now, we don't know," Gillette said. "We are evaluating it as we speak."

The public comment period originally was scheduled to end Feb. 17. The time frame was extended to Monday after Charleston County Council officials and State Highway Commissioner Bob Harrell met and expressed concern about the lack of public input in the process.

Harrell said he wanted to make sure no improper perceptions lingered among

community residents over the new road system. The public now has until April 19 to comment. Additionally, the state has scheduled a public workshop from 4:30 to 7 p.m. March 30 at Charleston Military Magnet Academy to receive additional feedback on the project.

"It's a good-faith effort on everybody's part for everyone to have their comments heard on the project," Harrell said. "It's just another measure to protect the public."

Byron Miller, a ports authority spokesman, said it is important for all community issues to be resolved.

"South Carolina needs a port expansion, now," Miller said. "But at the same time, it is vital we answer all questions and deal with the port-road issues."

If the port were to open its three-berth terminal, a four-lane elevated highway would be built, connecting the terminal to Interstate 26. Additionally, an access road to the Cooper River Marina and a local access road, proposed to be located at the intersection of Hackermann and Spruill avenues, could be built.

Many in the local community are adamantly against the new interchange.

"The community will hold steadfast against the local access road," said Charleston County Councilman Henry Darby. "And whatever the grass-roots effort says is the direction I will follow."

GIVE YOUR OPINION

The public has until April 19 to comment on the expansion.
Additionally, a public workshop will be held 4:30 to 7 p.m. March 30 at Charleston Military Magnet Academy for feedback.

Reach Jessica VanEgeren at jvanegeren@postandcourier.com or 937-5562.