Monday, March 14

PDRTA is ready for HARTsville

PDRTA wants to invest an estimated $600,000 for public transportation in Hartsville by supplying a bus service. This service would be similar to the service in Darlington called DART but would be named HART (Hartsville Area Transportation Service).

Janice M. Baroody, executive director of PDRTA, stated that they would work with the Hartsville Police Department and other necessary agencies to develop the most accommodating route for the area. Stops would possibly include the Medical Center, Coker College, the Memorial Library, grocery stores, shopping plazas, apartment complexes and different locations in the downtown area.

New vehicles will be handicapped equipped and provide security cameras in addition to GPS tracking. Wi-Fi is a possibility that would be an added bonus for college students.

The buses would resemble the Hartsville city flag in color and have a logo to represent the community.

PDRTA hopes to open a small downtown office.

The $596,000 budget would include $65,000 for two smaller buses, $175,000 for a trolley, $10,000 for signs and shelters, $10,000 for marketing, $80,000 for personnel and $200,000 for operational cost. The operational cost is subject to change due to the rising fuel costs which has almost doubled since last summer.

PDRTA officials want to hear from the citizens regarding the level of demand for public transportation in the city but do not have a meeting date at this time.

HARTsville ...PDRTA could be coming to you!