The City of Charleston is set to launch its Ride-share Pilot Program on Wednesday, May 1st. The project is aimed at streamlining traffic within the Central Business District, specifically along the King Street corridor between Spring and John Streets.
From 6 pm to 3 am, ride-share drivers will be guided to designated pickup and drop-off points, positioned to alleviate congestion along King Street and several side streets.
The city says the introduction of this initiative follows extensive research and planning by the city’s Business and Neighborhood Services Division, Design Division, Police Department, and Traffic & Transportation Department. Using insights from Uber and Lyft, the program selected five locations along the King Street corridor, targeting high-traffic areas to maximize convenience for passengers and drivers. Last week, City crews installed new signs not only to designate the pickup/drop-off zones but also directional signage along King Street to direct riders to the zones. The Charleston Police Department will also increase patrol officers to provide assistance to drivers and riders during this transition.
"Not only does this help police maintain an orderly flow of traffic on Upper King Street, but this will also support our rideshare providers by offering safe and efficient service to folks who visit this district," said Meg Thompson, Business & Neighborhood Services Director. "By designating space for this activity, we’re also keeping this activity contained and not encroaching into the surrounding neighborhoods.”
More information about this six-month pilot program and other Central Business District resources can be found at https://charleston-sc.gov/
