Coast RTA cancels routes, to offer hurricane evacuations transportation

In anticipation of Governor Henry McMaster’s executive order for evacuation for Horry County, Coast RTA has cancelled its fixed routes and paratransit services scheduled for Tuesday in preparation for its role in hurricane evacuations. If an evacuation is ordered, Coast RTA’s fixed route and paratransit services will be suspended until further notice. In the event that the evacuation is NOT ordered, Coast RTA expects to resume full service, weather permitting.

“Once an executive order is announced, Coast RTA initiates its role as the responsible party for public evacuation. We operate 24/7 in transporting residents to local shelters until the evacuation is over,” said Coast RTA General Manager Brian Piascik. “We urge everyone to be mindful of the road conditions (considering traffic as well as the projected wind and rain) and allow extra time to reach their destinations. Safety comes first!”

There are 20-plus designated hurricane evacuation bus stops/pick up locations served by Coast RTA along the Grand Strand throughout Zones A, B, and C. Coast RTA will post blue and white hurricane evacuation bus stop signs the designated hurricane pick up locations beginning immediately. Once evacuation is ordered, Coast RTA will pick up residents waiting at these designated hurricane evacuation bus stops and transport them to emergency shelters. When the Governor lifts the evacuation order and it has been deemed safe, Coast RTA will transport the residents back to the hurricane evacuation bus stops.

Coast RTA asks residents to limit belongings/bedding/luggage to one bag per person. No pets are allowed at the local shelters and therefore cannot be transported by Coast RTA to the shelters. For a complete listing evacuation/shelter tips and Residents with special transportation needs may call Coast RTA’s Customer Service to discuss options. For those needing shelters to accommodate special medical needs, please call SCDHEC at 843.915.8804.

Service updates will be announced through local media outlets and social media channels for evacuation transportation; as well as post-hurricane re-instatement of fixed route and paratransit service. For the latest updates on Coast RTA’s bus service during Hurricane Irma, call Coast RTA’s customer service at 843.488.0865, check Coast RTA’s social media platforms and its transportation APP.

For more information including additional route, schedule and fares information, call 843-488-0865 or visit the website www.RideCoastRTA.com.