Paving work on Hilton Head road paused. What we know
The town of Hilton Head Island has temporarily paused its paving project on a portion of Mitchelville Road after the asphalt supplier, Blythe Construction, shut down operations for several weeks.
In the meantime, senior project manager Stephen Barnes said that the affected section has been graded and will remain open for public use starting Friday, Dec. 5. Closures and interruptions for residents are intended to remain as minimal as possible, he said.
“The road will still be a dirt road as it was before, just in a bit better shape as paving is on hold,” Barnes said.
Construction was originally scheduled to finish by the end of December. According to the town, the asphalt plant is expected to reopen in mid-January 2026.
Other suppliers were considered to keep the project on schedule, Barnes said, but longer hauling distances and the need to keep asphalt at paving temperature made them impractical, prompting the closure. Blythe Construction’s nearby plant in Ridgeland was close enough to supply materials without delays.
Paving and construction are slated to restart once operations begin in mid-January between 7 a.m. and 5 p.m.
About the project
The project began the week of Nov. 3 and is taking place on the town-owned stretch of Mitchelville Road within the Baygall Historic Neighborhood.
The project focuses on the town-owned segment of Mitchelville Road, from its intersection with Fish Haul Road to the road’s endpoint. The South Carolina Department of Transportation owns the remaining portion of the roadway and is not part of the pavement effort.
Work includes paving, installing drainage infrastructure to manage stormwater, striping the road and adding permanent traffic signage.
Town officials say the project supports the 2026–2028 Strategic Action Plan, which emphasizes improving safety, mobility, aesthetics and the overall quality of life for residents, businesses and visitors.
Once completed, the town said the infrastructure upgrades will improve safety and accessibility for drivers. The partially paved route will also enhance access for municipal services, including fire and emergency vehicles responding to issues in the surrounding neighborhoods.
