We are getting prepared to launch our first ever fixed route bus service this fall!
The Hub on Smith applied for and received a grant from the Community Services Block Grant or CSBG and we also received an increase in the funding we get from the Federal Transit Administration. Between these two funding sources, we are close to having all of the funding needed to operate this new service for one year.
The route service area will extend from EMIT on the north end of town to the Covey Run Apartments on the west side of town and to Brundage Lane on the south end of town. With many stops in between. Service will be one bus every hour from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM, Monday through Friday. If we can secure additional funds, we will be able to provide this service from 7:00 to 7:00 Monday through Friday and 8:00 to 1:00 on Saturday and Sunday.
We are also anxiously awaiting the arrival of 8 new buses that will replace much of our current fleet that are approaching the end of their useful service life. We will be putting one of our brand new buses on the new fixed route. The neat thing about the fixed route is no advance reservations are necessary. You simply just need to be at one of our designated bus stops before the scheduled time and the driver will pull in to the stop and welcome you on board the bus. When you approach your destination, simply pull the stop request cord and the driver will pull into the next bus stop and let you off. Due to the nature of the funding from the CSBG, we are pleased to announce that this service will not require a fare. However, donations will be gladly accepted.
More information will be available as we get closer to the launch date so watch this space.
And one more thing—the current service that Goose Creek Transit provides will not change at all.
