CARTA begins implementing downtown Charleston transit plan

NORTH CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCBD) – The Charleston Area Regional Transport Authority, CARTA, is set to begin improving the system in downtown Charleston ahead of the Lowcountry Rapid Transit project.

Officials approved of the downtown transit study which was completed this summer at the board meeting. They observed routes and what CARTA will need to do to keep other transit plans on track. CARTA is expected to start rolling out their findings throughout the LCRT process.

“We want to make sure that we’re taking people where they wanted to go and as importantly, when they want to get there,” Michael Seekings, CARTA chairman, said. “Downtown with the change in demographics, the change in the way people move, and the increased hours of business in hospitality industry, certainly want to be able to serve them too.”

Additionally, transit planners updated where the LCRT is in its project phase. Sharon Hollis, CARTA principal planner, shared that they are on track and will go from 60 to 90 percent in its design. Construction is expected to begin in 2026 and at the latest end in 2030.

“It will be very affordable, very consistent, and you’ll be able to transfer off of the system,” Seekings said. “It’s the first large-scale transit project we’ve ever had in this region. It is going to be a game-changer for all who live here, visit here, and are looking for alternate ways to move around the region that are more convenient.”