CARTA Experiences Record Numbers on Beach Reach Shuttle, Anticipates Further Increase

CARTA Experiences Record Numbers on Beach Reach Shuttle, Anticipates Further Increase

In a significant development, the Charleston Area Regional Transportation Authority (CARTA) announced that this year’s Beach Reach shuttle service has achieved unprecedented success. The free shuttle service, which is in its third year, transports beachgoers directly from the Mount Pleasant Towne Center (CARTA stop #715) to Ocean Boulevard on Isle of Palms (stop #869).

Notably, parking at Mount Pleasant Towne Center is also accessible free of charge, providing beach enthusiasts even more convenience. Even though the Beach Reach shuttle is the only fare-free service offered by CARTA, the organization has been able to carry it out consistently with the support of contributions from the Town of Mount Pleasant and the City of Isle of Palms.

The routine is designed to easily connect from routes 40 and 42. According to CARTA Chairman Mike Seekings, the ridership for the Beach Reach shuttle in June alone surged by 53% from the previous year.

Success Dynamic Reaches New Heights

Mike Seekings further revealed that the service has received positive responses instrumental in shaping its impressive growth trajectory. He said, “I learned a long time ago that the enemy of good is better. Right now, the system really is good.” He also stated that the feedback over the past years has helped in making the service effective and efficient.

According to Seekings, the convenient access point at Towne Center, effective routing, and overall service quality have been key in attracting an increasing number of riders. Simultaneously, the strict enforcement of parking policies on Isle of Palms has also been a contributing factor in the increased usage.

Plan to Expand the Shuttle Service

While CARTA is fairly satisfied with the current route and does not plan to make any immediate changes, they are contemplating the idea of expanding their reach to other beach destinations. Specifically, they are considering Sullivan’s Island and Folly Beach for potential expansions, albeit, it would largely depend on logistical factors.

The Future of Beach Reach

Overall, CARTA officials are optimistic for the future of the Beach Reach shuttle, which runs every weekend until Labor Day. The first bus departs each Saturday at 9:15 a.m., with the last trip from the beach at 5:30 p.m. On Sundays, the service starts at 9:40 a.m. and ends at 5:55 p.m.

For tracking real-time bus schedules and planning efficient trips, CARTA advises commuters to download the TRANSIT mobile app, as heavy volumes of traffic could lead to occasional timing inconsistencies.

Source: HERE News Network

Author: HERE Charleston

HERE Charleston

Recent Posts

Hurricane Helene Causes Nearly $200 Million in Damage to South Carolina’s Timber Industry

Hurricane Helene Leaves $194 Million Impact on South Carolina Timber Industry Horry County, S.C. —…

12 hours ago

Charges Against South Carolina Forward Ashlyn Watkins Dismissed Amid Legal Proceedings

Charges Dismissed Against South Carolina Forward Ashlyn Watkins Columbia, S.C. - Suspended South Carolina forward…

12 hours ago

Columbia Woman Surprised by Large Snake in Bathroom

Columbia Woman Encounters Snake in Bathroom Columbia, South Carolina – In a surprising incident early…

12 hours ago

Execution of Inmate Richard Moore Marks South Carolina’s First Execution in 13 Years Amid Racial Controversy

Spartanburg, South Carolina Richard Moore, a 59-year-old inmate, was executed on Friday evening in South…

12 hours ago

Burglary Attempt Leads to Arrest of Repeat Offender in North Charleston

NORTH CHARLESTON, S.C. – Burglary Gone Wrong Leads to Arrest! In a bustling neighborhood in…

14 hours ago