North Charleston Celebrates Progress on South Carolina’s First Mass Transit System
North Charleston, S.C. – On Tuesday, local leaders gathered at the future site of the Shipwatch Square Transit Center to celebrate progress on South Carolina’s first-ever mass transit system. This event, hosted by the Berkeley-Charleston-Dorchester Council of Governments, provided a platform for officials to share updates on the Lowcountry Rapid Transit (LCRT) project which is set to transform transportation in the region.
What is the Project?
The Lowcountry Rapid Transit System is designed to be a modern bus rapid transit system stretching 21.3 miles. It will connect important areas across the region, running from Ladson to downtown Charleston and stopping at approximately 20 stations. The system aims to enhance mobility and accessibility, enabling transit users to enjoy 7,600 daily trips with service available for 21 hours on weekdays.
Where and When
The transit center is located at 3621 Rivers Ave. in North Charleston. Currently, the project has completed around 60% of the final design and is expected to open by 2029. This initiative marks a significant step forward in public transportation for South Carolina, aiming to bring reliable and efficient transit options to residents.
Key Features and Benefits
The LCRT will operate in dedicated lanes alongside major routes such as Rivers Avenue, featuring essential amenities like real-time signage, Wi-Fi, lighting, and off-board fare payment systems at each station. The project also prioritizes road safety, especially on Rivers Avenue, which currently has a crash rate 200% higher than the state average. To improve safety, the plan includes adding 34 pedestrian crosswalks.
Mayor Reggie Burgess emphasized the impact of the new transit system on community growth. “When they provide better for their families, their mindsets are higher, and they can invest,” he noted. He believes this system will contribute to building generational wealth for families in the area.
Community Integration
According to Chairman Mike Seekings, the project has been carefully designed to avoid displacing current communities. “What we’ve done is design a transit system that goes through active, vibrant communities,” he stated. This plan not only provides better transport options but also stimulates local economies without uprooting residents. Over the next 20 years, the corridor is expected to see a 30% job growth and a 50% increase in households.
Funding the Future
The financial backing for the project is sourced from both the 2016 and 2024 transportation sales tax referendums, with $250 million allocated from 2016 and a portion of the projected $648 million from 2024. Additionally, the federal government is contributing $5 million for construction costs.
Connecting Communities
The LCRT aims to enhance connectivity across the region, linking residents to over 60 healthcare and hospital systems, five colleges and universities, and numerous neighborhoods, community centers, entertainment venues, and grocery stores. This initiative is set to be a game-changer for public transport in South Carolina, promoting accessibility and fostering new opportunities for residents.
