Exciting News for North Charleston: A New Era of Transit Begins!
North Charleston, S.C. is buzzing with energy as the city prepares for its first-ever mass transit system, the Lowcountry Rapid Transit (LCRT). The excitement was palpable at a recent event hosted by the Berkeley-Charleston-Dorchester Council of Governments, where community leaders gathered to celebrate significant progress at the future site of the Shipwatch Square Transit Center.
A Milestone Celebration
On a sunny Tuesday, leaders and planners took a moment to share the journey so far and give residents a glimpse of what lies ahead. Principal Transit Planner, Sharon Hollis, expressed her enthusiasm, stating, “This is the center of the Lowcountry Rapid Transit corridor. This becomes a hub of transit, multi-modal access, and workforce development. A one-stop shop for all your needs.” It’s safe to say that the LCRT is gearing up to be a game-changer for local transportation!
Progress Update: Halfway There!
Since planning began back in 2019, this ambitious project has reached the halfway mark, with about 60% of the final design completed. The grand unveiling of the LCRT system is aiming for 2029, and it promises to be a comprehensive 21.3-mile bus rapid transit system. This transport route will connect various locations across the region, running from Ladson to the heart of downtown Charleston, stopping at an impressive 20 stations along the way.
What to Expect from the Lowcountry Rapid Transit
The LCRT is designed to offer reliability, convenience, and accessibility to its users. With approximately 7,600 daily trips and a remarkable 21-hour weekday service, commuters will greatly benefit from the service. The designated bus lanes will run alongside busy roads like Rivers Avenue, ensuring smooth travel for everyone.
Each station will be equipped with modern amenities, including real-time signage, Wi-Fi, adequate lighting, and off-board fare payment systems. Plus, there are plans to enhance road safety, particularly on Rivers Avenue, which has a crash rate 200% higher than the state average. With features like 34 additional pedestrian crosswalks, better lighting, and improved pathways, it’s evident that safety is a top priority for the transit planners.
Building a Brighter Future
Local officials are optimistic about the impact of this transit system on the community. Mayor Reggie Burgess commented on how the new transit system would improve lives, saying, “When people provide better for their families, their mindsets are higher and they can invest. This system builds generational wealth.”
Designing a plan that grows with the community has been a challenge, but leaders are committed to enhancing neighborhoods without displacing residents. Chairman Mike Seekings emphasized, “What we’ve done is design a transit system that goes through communities that are alive, vibrant, and active. It adds to that; it does not displace anyone.”
Envisioning Growth
In the coming years, the LCRT corridor is projected to see job growth of 30% and a 50% jump in households, making it a critical component for future city planning. Funding for this massive project is being secured through 2016 and 2024 transportation sales tax referendums, alongside federal contributions.
Connecting the Community
One of the key benefits of the LCRT is improved connectivity. This transit system will facilitate access to over 60 healthcare and hospital systems, five colleges and universities, and numerous neighborhoods, employment opportunities, entertainment venues, grocery stores, and more. Residents are in for a treat as the future of transit in North Charleston is set for a transformative leap!
As we look ahead to 2029, the Lowcountry Rapid Transit system is a step forward that promises to enrich the lives of countless residents, making transportation easier and enhancing the community as a whole. What an exciting time to be in North Charleston!
