State Funding Has Stalled While Demand Has Soared
In 1987, there were seven (7) transit systems serving 24 counties. Today there are 34 systems serving 46 counties. We continue to cut more slices from the same pie.
Technically, the pie is smaller—what was worth $6M in 1987 only provides $2.2M in buying power today.
The Solution: Increase Transit Funding to $80 Million Annually
Why? Because South Carolina’s economy depends on it.
- 2-3 million additional rides annually—70% of trips help people get to work.
- According to SCDEW, over 400,000 South Carolinians are under- or unemployed. Up to half of them cite the lack of transportation as a reason why.
- Unlocks $200-250 million in federal matching funds over the next 10 years, critical for expanding service and maintaining fleets, especially in rural communities.
South Carolina is Falling Behind
- South Carolina ($1.08) ranks far behind neighboring states in per capita transit investment – Georgia ($2.16), North Carolina ($7.00), Tennessee ($8.97), and Florida ($14.61).
- To match our original commitment to transit, funding should be $80.6M today, yet we remain at just $6.0M.
A Smart Investment for South Carolina
Expanding transit funding means:
- More reliable service
- Stronger local economies
- Better access to jobs, healthcare, and education
We urge you to champion increased transit funding—South Carolina’s future depends on it.
- Current South Carolina law prevents transportation providers from removing passengers who violate the code of conduct, jeopardizing the safety of others.
- Transit operators don’t have the authority to remove disruptive passengers, which puts others at risk.
- Legislation is needed to empower transit providers to take action against threats and ensure a secure environment for all passengers.
- Support common-sense safety measures—protect riders, drivers, and staff from disruptive and dangerous behavior.