Columbia Transportation Leaders Push for New DART Buses to Serve Disabled Residents

COLUMBIA, SC – A Rush for New Rides for DART

It’s a chilly December morning in Columbia, with the sun shining but temperatures barely nudging 54°F. As the community prepares for the brisk days ahead, there’s a pressing matter on the minds of local transportation leaders – the aging DART bus fleet that caters to the city’s most vulnerable residents: those with disabilities.

Time for Change

For many disabled residents of Richland County, the DART (Dial-A-Ride Transit Service) is not just a means of transportation; it’s a lifeline to work, school, and essential services. However, the COMET board of directors is sounding the alarm as they scramble to replace these aging buses that have well surpassed their “useful life.”

During a board meeting on December 11, adviser Michael Green didn’t mince words. He emphasized the importance of acting swiftly to avoid any disruptions in service. “These vehicles serve the most vulnerable people in our society,” he stated, highlighting the crucial role DART plays in daily lives.

Fleet in Trouble

The situation is getting urgent. According to standards set by the Federal Transit Administration, DART vehicles that are over seven years old or have clocked in over 200,000 miles are due for retirement. Unfortunately, all 22 shuttles in the fleet have exceeded that mark, with one bus practically doubling the mileage threshold and creeping into its ninth year.

“They’re old,” said COMET spokesperson Pamela Bynoe-Reed bluntly. “They’re having to get fixed more often.” Currently, five buses are sitting in the repair shop, though, thankfully, this hasn’t impacted services yet. However, City Councilman and COMET board member Will Brennan warns that if more buses require repairs, we could be facing serious issues. “If more of the DART buses get shelved, there could be an impact,” he cautioned. “That’s what we want to avoid.”

A Lesson from the Past

Brennan also noted a critical lesson learned from past purchasing decisions. The DART buses were purchased in bulk back in 2015—a decision he described as “a big no-no” in the transit world. Relying heavily on one batch can lead to a fleet that collectively ages out, which is exactly what’s playing out now.

New Wheels on the Horizon

The COMET board is now working diligently to approve the purchase of seven new vehicles, which, at a price of about $137,000 each, is no small investment. But it’s a necessary one. According to Bynoe-Reed, if all goes well, the new buses could arrive within just three to six months. That prospect is definitely a ray of sunshine for both the board and, more importantly, the community that relies on DART’s services.

A Community on the Move

As the city of Columbia looks to the future, one thing is clear: reliable transportation for all its residents is crucial for the health and vibrancy of the community. And while the staff at COMET works to replace their weary fleet, they hope to ensure that services continue without a hitch.

In fact, as they wrap up discussions and make decisions to enhance public transit, the focus remains on the individuals who depend on these services daily. After all, everyone deserves to have access to the opportunities our city provides. And who knows? With new buses on the way, Columbia could soon be zooming into a brighter, more accessible future!