New Rideshare-Style Service Coming to Spartanburg
Hey, Spartanburg folks! Have you ever wished for a more flexible way to zip around town? Well, your city leaders have heard your call, and changes are coming your way. Starting in 2025, the City of Spartanburg will be launching a brand new transit service which you’re going to love!
The city is rolling out a fresh micro-transit rideshare-like service, aimed at making it easier for local residents to traverse the city, especially those residing in the North and South sides. Picture this: an app-based shuttle service that’s almost like hailing your private cab, but much cheaper!
Everything You Need to Know About Spartanburg’s New Transit Service
Hold on, before you start imagining prices soaring, let me tell you that this service is just $2.00 a pop! All you need to do is use an app and the shuttle will arrive at your doorstep to whisk you away to your destination. Cool, isn’t it?
The shuttle is designed to hold a maximum of seven passengers and thereโs a designated space for two wheelchair users as well. Plus, the vehicles have a luggage rack and a wheelchair lift which is fantastic because we’re all about inclusivity and convenience.
Why A New Transit Service?
Well, the Assistant City Manager, Kevin Limehouse, explained that the city’s current public transit system, SPARTA, isn’t fulfilling the needs of every resident. Particularly if you don’t live near a bus stop or route, he said, “the distance you have to go [using SPARTA] and then riding a number of bus stops… it’s a lot.”
Also, keep in mind that although the new service is a little more expensive than SPARTA’s fixed-route fare, the trade-off for a much quicker and convenient service may well be worth it. Although there have been concerns about whether this price increase might deter lower-income residents, there’s room for adjustments based on the data collected during the pilot phase.
An Exciting Future for Spartanburg Commuters
On a positive note, the City Council recently approved the purchase of three shuttles. Two will be actively working the streets while one will stand by in reserve. Each vehicle costs $116,258 and will be funded entirely by State Mass Transit Funds.
The new service is set to kick off anytime between January and April 2025 and will run for at least a year.
So mark your calendars, folks, and get ready to enjoy this ride as it adds a new layer of convenience for the busy, on-the-go residents of Spartanburg. And don’t worry, all you SPARTA lovers, your preferred routes aren’t changing!
From the look of things, the future of public transit in Spartanburg is definitely riding in style. Can’t wait!!!
