File Photo (WCIV)MOUNT PLEASANT, S.C. (WCIV) -- Mt. Pleasant CARTA customers will have to memorize a different set of routes starting February 24.
The Charleston Area Regional Transportation Authority (CARTA) announced changes to the Mount Pleasant routes they hope will increase efficiency
CARTA officials said they studied the current routes, made recommendations during their
monthly board meeting, and explained their findings at a public hearing in Mount Pleasant.
The study found a stronger need in certain
areas and stops on current routes that weren't being used. Riders were notified of the changes over the past
several weeks with signs on the buses, as well as letters sent to current
users of the Tel-A-Ride service.
"CARTA
regularly monitors each route in the system to ensure that they are the most
efficient routes and offering service in the areas with the most need and use,"
said CARTA Board Chairman Elliott Summey. "Extensive studies of the current
Mount Pleasant routes were conducted to make sure the recommended changes were
in the best interest of the riders we serve, as well as overall efficiency of
the system. CARTA understands the sensitivity of these changes and is
communicating with riders to ensure they are aware of all transit
options."
The changes include:
- Additional
equipment added to Route 40 to decrease wait times at each stop.
- Route
401 and 402 will be consolidated into Route 41, serving Patriot's Point,
Waterfront Park, and Coleman Blvd to Rifle Range Rd. The service will travel
into Downtown Charleston and will provide service back to Coleman Blvd.
- CARTA's
Tel-A-Ride service will continue in the area with changes consistent with the
boundaries set by Route 40 and the new Route 41.
Tel-A-Ride service boundaries are set within 3/4 mile on either side of the new
transit routes, with added service extended to the municipal boundaries of the
Town of Sullivan's Island and the City of Isle of Palms.
Eligible residents who
live outside the service area are still able to ride the Tel-A-Ride service when
within the service area.
