Work continues on the Whaley Street Bridge after a dump truck became stuck underneath it just 13 days ago, once again highlighting clearance issues that have caused repeated problems in the area.

Businesses near the bridge, including Addam’s Gamecock Gear, say the ongoing repairs and traffic congestion have made it difficult to attract customers.

“It’s really hard to get in and out,” said Jack Herrington, team member at Addam’s Gamecock Gear. “It kind of has to flow in and out. It’s just such a mess.”

Students commuting to class have also been affected.

“I actually really like being able to drive under that bridge,” student Joseph Pauls said. “You can’t get around it out here, so that’s really useful to be able to drive under it.”

This is not the first time a vehicle has gotten stuck under the Whaley Street Bridge. A Bud Light truck became wedged beneath it in 2018, and a moving truck got stuck in 2021.

The bridge is part of the City of Columbia’s Assembly Street Railroad Separation Project. While city officials declined to speak directly with us, they told Carolina News they are working to secure funding for the next phase of the project and do not yet have an expected completion date.