Hilton Head Council OKs bridges at island entrance

HILTON HEAD ISLAND, S.C. (AP) — Some people say two flyover bridges at the entrance to Hilton Head Island will be an eyesore. But others say they are needed for hurricane evacuation and to smooth the flow of traffic.

The Island Packet of Hilton Head reports (http://bit.ly/GGkiVC) the town council has endorsed the new bridges linking U.S. 278 with Bluffton Parkway on the mainland side of the island.

The bridges have prompted intense debate. Opponents say they will blight the entrance to the resort island, spoiling the natural beauty that attracts visitors.

The bridges that are expected to cost $31 million have been proposed for some time. The project sat dormant because there was no money but the state recently offered the county $15 million if it is matched by local funds.

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Information from: The Island Packet, http://www.islandpacket.com