South Carolinians have paid almost $2 billion in higher state gas taxes.

But only 3 crumbling bridges have been repaired.

Transportation Department records show that 465 of 750 “structurally defi cient” bridges statewide must be replaced.

Of 46 counties, 30 fell under the 50% completion rate as of May 31, including the larger counties of Lexington, Charleston, Horry and Richland. Other agency records show a majority of 66 “priority” projects are unfinished.

Lawmakers promised in 2017 fast repairs to roads and bridges in raising the state gas tax 12 cents a gal lon over 6 years and other vehicle taxes and fees.

Of $1.9 billion collected through May 31, only $18 million was designated by DOT for bridge repair.

DOT’s “10 Year Plan” shows that of 430 bridge projects only 36, or 8.3%, have been completed.

356 are listed as “closed and load restricted.”

Another 257 projects, or about 60%, have “TBD” (to be determined) start dates.

Bridge work includes concrete deck repairs, steel painting and resealing expansion joints.

Nearly $272 million, or 15.4%, was designated for interstate widening — not bridge and road repair.

Brundrett is the news editor of The Nerve (www.thenerve. org). Contact him at 803-254-4411 or rick@thenerve.org