Coast RTA announces new routes connecting Conway to Myrtle Beach airport

MYRTLE BEACH, SC (WMBF) - Coast Regional Transportation Authority announced new routes that took effect Sunday, adding service to MYR and adjusting schedules across Horry and Georgetown counties.

The changes include reestablishing a pulse system at the Myrtle Beach Transfer Center, where routes now meet on the hour to reduce wait times for riders making transfers.

“Reestablishing our pulse at our Myrtle Beach Transfer Center makes transfers much easier,” said Lauren Morris of Coast RTA. “Every route meets there on the hour, so transfers are seamless. You don’t have a lot of downtime waiting if you need to make a transfer.”

Three new buses were added to service the changed routes.

Route changes

Route 17, which serves North Myrtle Beach, was adjusted from two-hour loops to one-hour loops.

Route 11 added a new loop to serve Carolina Forest, with service along River Oaks Drive and Carolina Forest Boulevard. The addition provides access to doctors’ offices in the area.

Route 7 will add a stop at Myrtle Beach International Airport, connecting Conway with Myrtle Beach and providing access for travelers.

In a statement, the airport said: “Residents and visitors will continue to have convenient and affordable public transportation access to and from the airport while improving connectivity between major destinations across Horry County.”

Riders said they are excited about the opportunities the changes will open but acknowledged an adjustment period.

“They open up new jobs for people who are interested in traveling back and forth, even though it is hectic for people to travel because they are not used to traveling different routes,” Anthony Powell said. “They need to at least get an understanding of where the buses are going and how they are going.”

Safety was a focus in planning the new bus stops, which eliminate the need for riders to cross major highways.

“We always build routes to service door side,” Tausheedah Bellamy said. “It’s one of the key points we try to focus on when we make changes to pick up and drop off, that way the door is facing the sidewalk or the parking lot, that way they are not in the street.”

Additionally, Morris said multiple projects are in the planning stages, including a new transfer hub in Myrtle Beach and a new Route 9 that will serve the Sea Coast Hospital area.

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