The Lowcountry Rapid Transit project is a proposed 23-mile bus rapid transit system between Charleston, North Charleston and Summerville that would provide reliable travel, connect communities, and energize economic opportunities along the corridor.
In response to rapid growth in the Lowcountry’s population and economy, BCDCOG commissioned the i-26ALT study, a 15-month analysis to identify a viable fixed guideway transit solution to reduce traffic congestion and improve mobility in the region. The i-26ALT study concluded that a bus rapid transit system along the US Highway 78 and US Highway 52 Corridor, running parallel to I-26, was the preferred transit alternative to move forward into project development. As the tri-county planning agency responsible for regional transportation and transit projects, BCDCOG is leading this project.
Lowcountry Rapid Transit would provide residents with dependable, frequent transportation and greater access to opportunities throughout the region. Connections between communities and employment centers would be enhanced and would also
accommodate other modes such as biking and walking.
- South Carolina’s first mass transit project
- Connecting businesses, customers and commuters
- Growth in employment clusters and affordable housing
With the LCRT system, new stations would be added along the corridor to provide more options for riders with access to key areas like employment hubs, recreation, schools, tourism, and other community resources. These stations would include improved designs to offer greater protection, safety and comfort to communities that would complement the aesthetics of the area. Bike racks, benches, awnings are just a few of the included bus and station amenities to accommodate bicyclists and pedestrians to encourage the use of and provide a seamless flow for alternate methods of transportation.
- Dedicated lanes for bus rapid transit; improved reliability
- Comfortable, convenient and modern; faster travel times for commuters
- Safer transportation environment and ADA compliant
The system would utilize advanced technology to make travel more reliable and prepare the region for the future of transit by supporting autonomous vehicles and other innovations. Updated signage and lighting have the ability to make your commutes safer. Efforts will be made to expand transit access to all residents and commuters through uses of new technology, including kiosks, mobile technology and more.
- Stoplight signal priority and synchronization
- WiFi equipped and innovations to support autonomous vehicles
- Updated wayfinding and corridor lighting
LCRT isn’t just a benefit for commuters, but also one for the environment by including vehicles that reduce emissions by relying on alternative fuels and electricity to power buses. This would lead to cleaner air and waterways, and as a result, stronger communities.
- Affordable transportation alternative
- Clean fuels and potentially electric powered
- Air pollution emission reductions
By incorporating sidewalks, bus lanes, and safe pedestrian crossways, the project will promote an increased connectivity between communities to bolster opportunities for residents and businesses through access to affordable housing and employment. Communities currently divided by highways and distance can rebuild connections and bolster new bonds.
- Accessible and equitable link to community resources and affordable housing options
- Bike and pedestrian upgrades
- Increased physical activity for commuters