TriCounty Link expands fleet with 11 new transit vehicles

New buses feature an increase in comfort, safety and efficiency.

TriCounty Link announced the arrival of 11 new buses that will enhance the transit experience for rural residents of Berkeley, Charleston and Dorchester counties.

The Ford Starcraft Allstar E-450 vehicles bring the TriCounty Link fleet to a total of 60 buses and feature noticeable improvements in comfort, safety and efficiency, such as dual wheelchair doors and a rear air conditioning system.

“We’re delighted with the purchase of these new vehicles and understand how important this improved experience will be for the residents of our rural communities,” said TriCounty Link Board of Directors Chair Anna Johnson. “The updated Starcraft buses enhance safety while also improving comfort.”

The 11 new vehicles are 23 feet in length, eight feet wide and have the capacity for 14 passengers. Made in the U.S., the purchase of each vehicle cost approximately $63,000, which was made possible via South Carolina mass transit funding.

Highlights of the new Ford Starcraft Allstar vehicles include:

• Straight side wall construction to maximize passenger shoulder space.
• Upgraded interior with overhead ceiling mounted grab rails and a chrome finish.
• Improved accessibility with dual wheelchair doors located in the rear.
• Enhanced safety with backup cameras and HD video recording systems.

BY THE NUMBERS:

4: Doors (two wheelchair rear doors)
8’: Vehicle width in feet
11: New Starcraft Allstar E-450 buses
14: Total passenger capacity (two wheelchairs)
23’: Vehicle length in feet
$63,000: Cost per vehicle

For more information on TriCounty Link, please visit http://www.ridetricountylink.com/.

About TriCounty Link

The TriCounty Link system is comprised of nine regular fixed routes and six commuter routes providing services to rural residents of Berkeley, Charleston and Dorchester counties. The current fleet consists of 60 vehicles seating from 14 to 32 passengers. All TriCounty Link vehicles are ADA compliant and include wheelchair lifts, and on average, two wheelchair tie-down positions per vehicle. For the latest on TriCounty Link, visit www.ridetricountylink.com and like us on Facebook.