May 23, 2025

CARTA Launches Fifth Year of Free Beach Reach Shuttle Service

News Summary

The Charleston Area Regional Transportation Authority (CARTA) is celebrating the fifth year of its free Beach Reach Shuttle service, offering transportation from Mount Pleasant to Isle of Palms County Park. Starting May 24, the shuttle will run on weekends and holidays, providing an hourly schedule to facilitate easier access for beachgoers. New trolley-like buses aim to enhance the experience, amid recent increases in parking fees at Isle of Palms. Community officials emphasize the importance of this service for affordable beach access.

Carta Launches Fifth Year of Free Beach Reach Shuttle Service from Mount Pleasant to Isle of Palms

Mount Pleasant, SC – The Charleston Area Regional Transportation Authority (CARTA) has announced the return of its Beach Reach Shuttle, which is celebrating its fifth year of operation. The shuttle will provide free transportation from Mount Pleasant Town Centre to the Isle of Palms County Park beginning May 24, 2025, and continuing through August 31, 2025. This service will be operational on weekends and designated holidays, including Memorial Day, Independence Day, and Labor Day.

The shuttle will offer hourly departures starting at 9:15 a.m. from Towne Centre, with the last bus leaving the Isle of Palms at 5:30 p.m. on Saturdays. On Sundays, service will begin at 9:40 a.m. and run until 5:55 p.m., aimed at facilitating smoother transfers for passengers.

Logistics and Features of the Beach Reach Shuttle

The Beach Reach Shuttle’s primary pick-up and drop-off point will be located at the entrance of Isle of Palms County Park. For the current year, riders can expect a new trolley-like bus that was purchased in late 2024 by the Berkeley-Charleston-Dorchester Council of Governments, enhancing the experience for beachgoers.

In 2024, the shuttle service recorded 703 riders, which is a decrease from the 795 riders in 2023. The fluctuation in ridership reflects variable weather conditions affecting the beach attendance. Riders are encouraged to bring small beach items, such as chairs and coolers, but are reminded to avoid overloading the bus.

Background and Development of the Service

The Beach Reach Shuttle service was first approved in 2021 in response to plans for restricted beach parking, aiming to maintain free beach access for the community. As of this season, parking fees at Isle of Palms have increased for the first time in five years, now reaching as high as $25 during peak beach times. This has prompted local officials and CARTA board members to highlight the importance of providing free transportation alternatives to improve accessibility to beach resources.

CARTA board Chair Mike Seekings noted that offering free services like the Beach Reach Shuttle helps ensure that community members can access the beach without financial burdens. In addition, CARTA board member Daniel Brownstein is advocating for an added stop at Sullivan’s Island, which could enhance ridership and alleviate parking challenges in the area.

Future Prospects and Considerations

Previously operated shuttle routes to Folly Beach were discontinued due to low ridership, but upcoming assessments may prompt the revival of such services in the future. The current Beach Reach Shuttle initiative aims to address ongoing parking issues and provide a valuable solution for beachgoers looking to enjoy days by the water without the cost barrier of parking fees.

This year’s festivities surrounding the shuttle’s launch included a kickoff press conference held at the Beach Reach Shuttle stop located at 14th Avenue and Ocean Boulevard in Isle of Palms, marking the beginning of another fruitful summer season for beach transportation.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Isle of Palms Offers Exciting Events This May
Residents in Mount Pleasant Disappointed by Town Hall Snub
Isle of Palms Reintroduces the Beach Reach Shuttle for Summer

Additional Resources

Author: STAFF HERE CHARLESTON

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