On Tuesday, October 29, 2024, the Berkeley-Charleston-Dorchester Council of Governments (BCDCOG) celebrated significant milestones in design of the Lowcountry Rapid Transit (LCRT) project, South Carolina’s first mass transit system. The 21.3-mile modern bus rapid transit system will include infrastructure, roadway and operational improvements throughout the project corridor that will improve safety across various modes of transportation.
“Lowcountry Rapid Transit represents more than just a transportation system; it is a vital investment into the future of our region,” said Mike Seekings, City of Charleston Councilman, and Chairman of CARTA. “We’re two years away from securing $375 million in federal funding and moving LCRT to construction. This project will ensure that our residents and visitors have access to safe and efficient transportation options, breaking down barriers and creating more opportunities for connectivity.”
LCRT is now in its final stages of design, which includes plans for roadway improvements and added infrastructure for safer, more efficient travel for commuters, transit riders, pedestrians, and bicyclists. The system will provide connections to more than 60+ primary/urgent care and healthcare facilities, four major hospital systems, five colleges and universities, neighborhoods, grocery stores, community centers, jobs, entertainment centers, and more.
“This type of investment into local infrastructure will improve the safety of our communities and the traveling public. Lowcountry Rapid Transit supports reliable, frequent, and accessible transportation options, opens the door for residents to access key resources and community amenities, and sees that our region remains a desirable place to live and work,” said City of North Charleston Mayor, Reggie Burgess.
Project Features
- Dedicated bus lanes to keep rapid transit separate from cars in key areas of the corridor.
- Reconstructed sidewalks, over 14 miles of new sidewalks and mixed-use pathways, and 34 new signalized pedestrian crosswalks.
- Weekday service as frequent as every 10 minutes at 20 stations along the route.
- 21 hours of weekday service.
Advanced technology features:
- Stoplight signal priority
- Wi-Fi equipped stations
- Digital station displays with real-time information and maps
- Updated wayfinding and corridor lighting
- Off-board fare payment
LCRT is projected to open to the public in 2029, with construction beginning in 2027. The LCRT route sets the foundation for future rapid transit systems across the region.
