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Regional transit provider reports a 53% ridership increase over two years; seeks capital matches for shelters and vehicles
Summary
A PDRT representative told Marlboro County council ridership rose from ~30,000 to ~44,000 trips in two years with projections near 50,000; the provider described capital needs (bus shelters, two vehicles) and noted federal grants cover about 80% of capital costs, leaving 20% local match requirements.
A representative identified in the meeting as Donald Strickland presented regional transit data and capital needs to Marlboro County council.
Strickland said the system recorded just over 30,000 trips in fiscal year 2020–21 and about 44,000 trips the past year, with a projection near 50,000 this year — which he described in the presentation as roughly a 53% increase over two years. Councilors and the presenter discussed service gaps (limited intercounty connections outside the county) and operational constraints such as vehicle capacity and headway frequency.
On capital needs, Strickland described planned purchases (a cutaway bus and a Ford Transit van), noted private contributions (a local foundation and CareFirst Carolina pledged approximately $38,000 toward vehicles), and said federal capital grants typically provide an 80% match for shelters and other assets, leaving 20% local fund needs. He also discussed ADA access features and the potential to add bus shelters that include internet access for riders.
Council asked about local employment resulting from transit contracts; Strickland said staffing varies by assignment and includes mechanics and drivers. He said the agency is exploring regional coordination to support workforce access to new industry sites in Florence and to reduce commute times for riders.
Next steps: council and staff will consider funding options for local matches and coordination with neighboring counties to expand route connectivity.
