CARTA Announces Free Beach Reach Shuttles for Summer
Charleston Area Regional Transportation Authority (CARTA) has announced the return of its popular Beach Reach service for its third consecutive year. In collaboration with the cities of Mount Pleasant and Isle of Palms and the Towne Centre, CARTA is once again offering free shuttle services to the beach every weekend this summer, through Labor Day.
About the Beach Reach Program
Beach Reach is a program designed to make traveling to the beach more convenient and economical. It was initially launched three years ago, aiming to facilitate better access to beach areas while alleviating traffic congestion during peak months. This year, Mount Pleasant, Isle of Palms, Towne Centre, and CARTA have joined forces to extend this service free of charge to the public.
Details of the Service
The Beach Reach service provides shuttles from various pick-up points throughout Mount Pleasant to the beaches of Isle of Palms. Rides are available every weekend from morning until late evening. Although specific schedules may vary, passengers can check the expected arrival and departure times using the CARTA Transit App.
Users of the service are recommended to be mindful of what they take on the shuttle, as space might be limited during peak hours. Items permitted include beach chairs, small coolers, and towels.
Other Services from CARTA
Beyond the Beach Reach service, CARTA also offers other transit options such as the Park & Ride service and CARTA OnDemand. The Park & Ride service allows passengers to park their vehicles at designated lots and take a bus to their destination, reducing the number of cars on the road. CARTA OnDemand is a reservation-based service offering door-to-door transportation within certain zones.
Additionally, CARTA is also providing free bus services in downtown Charleston through the summer. These services aim to make commuting more affordable and help reduce traffic congestion in and around the city.
Future Plans
While Beach Reach and other CARTA services are currently planned for the summer months, CARTA is actively exploring options to extend these offerings throughout the year. They are taking into consideration the public’s feedback and transportation needs while devising future strategies.
Conclusion
In conclusion, CARTA’s Beach Reach program offers an excellent opportunity for residents and visitors to enjoy the beautiful beaches of Mount Pleasant and Isle of Palms without worrying about traffic or parking. The service not only helps save money but also promotes environmental sustainability by reducing the number of cars on the road. For more information about Beach Reach and other CARTA services, individuals can visit the CARTA website or download the CARTA Transit App.
