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About the Coast RTA
Creating a world-class transportation system

Mission Statement:

To create a world class mass public transportation system that enhances the quality of life for residents of Horry and Georgetown counties and contributes to the growth of tourism.

In July 2008 Coast RTA celebrated its 25th Anniversary.

History:

In July 1983 the vision of three men, Ivory Wilson, Clarence Watkins, and J. R. Taylor, came to fruition with bus service for the area being provided by Coastal Rapid Public Transit Authority (CRPTA). The dream actually began on July 4, 1980 when Wilson, Watkins and Taylor began planning to provide Horry and Georgetown counties transportation for those in need to places of employment, shopping and medical offices.

The company began with six GM buses on lease from the Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority. In that first year the new transit company enjoyed an average of 332 boarding's each day. The following year that number grew to 729.

For sixteen years the company operated as a private, non-profit organization governed by a three member board, Wilson, Taylor, and George Richardson. In 1999 CRPTA became the public, non-profit Waccamaw Regional Transportation Authority guided by a nine member board of directors. The RTA has done business as Lymo (During some very challenging times.) and now, Coast RTA.

Conway Local Route 1 and Myrtle Beach bound Route 7 are ready for departure at the Conway Terminal.

Today:

Coast RTA is operated with a dedicated staff that is quite proud of their accomplishments and contributions to the community. The company operates 50 vehicles ranging from 18-passenger to 40-passenger buses and presently services fifteen fixed routes, including Coastal Carolina University www. some with a demand service component. In addition the company provides Paratransit services and limited contract services.

Coast RTA is fortunate to receive significant local funding from:

• Horry County
• Georgetown County
• The City of Myrtle Beach
• The City of Conway

These local funds are used to match both Federal Transit Administration and South Carolina Deparment of Transportation/Mass Transit Division allocations.

All rights reserved. Copyright 2009 - 2010, Coast RTA