Ben Sawyer Bridge

Ben Sawyer Bridge is a swing bridge spanning the Intracoastal Waterway between Mount Pleasant and Sullivan's Island. Its central pivoting span rotates to allow watercraft to pass, while approach sections extend from either bank.

Construction began in 1943 during World War II and the bridge opened in 1945 as the first vehicle connection to Sullivan's Island. It was named after Benjamin Mack Sawyer, a longtime leader of the South Carolina Highway Department.

The crossing stands as a memorial to Benjamin Mack Sawyer, who led the South Carolina Highway Department as Chief Commissioner from 1926 to 1940.

The bridge opens periodically to allow boat traffic through, so drivers should allow extra time when crossing. Visitors can walk across and enjoy views of the Intracoastal Waterway from the mid-span.

The rotating span tore loose and collapsed into the waterway during Hurricane Hugo in 1989, requiring major reconstruction. This dramatic event reshaped how the bridge was rebuilt and reinforced afterward.

Location: Mount Pleasant

Location: Sullivan's Island

Inception: 1945

Official opening: 1945

GPS coordinates: 32.77310,-79.84220

Latest update: December 9, 2025 18:46