State leaders announce Scout Motors Interchange Project in Blythewood

BLYTHEWOOD, SC (WOLO) — State leaders say a new interchange set to be built in Blythewood will greatly improve the daily commute for employees of the future Scout Motors’ manufacturing plant.

The Scout Motors Drive Interchange Project includes widening of the portion of I-77 Northbound, a new connector road from Exit 26 to U.S. 21, and a new railroad bridge over I-77 for rail access, according to officials.

“As we look across this terrain, I am also reminded that we can do anything under the sun. We can do anything to create a better day,” says Blythewood’s Mayor Sloan Griffin III.

Richland County Council Chair Jesica Mackey says there will be a few inconveniences, but mostly a great number of benefits in terms of economic and community growth.

“We not only want to bring this amazing project to life, and job opportunities right here in Richland County for our citizens but we also want to limit any disruptions that may arise as this project takes shape,” she says.

Scout Motors CEO Scott Keough says 4,000 jobs will be created when the manufacturing facility opens in 2027.

“These are not jobs that are here today gone tomorrow type of jobs. These are the jobs that give you a better tomorrow. Benefits, competitive pay, career development, high quality training, healthcare, childcare,” says Keough.

Expected completion dates for the railroad bridge is November 2025.  The completion date for the interchange and U.S. 21 realignment is December 2026. And the widening of I-77 is expected to be complete in June 2027.

Officials say the total cost for the project is $200 million.