Having reliable transportation to the workplace can be a barrier for some who would like to be employed, but aren’t because of this issue. PDRTA (Pee Dee Regional Transportation Authority) is removing that barrier for those who use its services.
PDRTA got some help in its mission on Tuesday morning with a $30,000 contribution from the Tri-County Park board. The Tri-County Park, home of Harbor Freight Tools, is a joint county park between Dillon, Marion, and Marlboro Counties. The Tri-County Park is the first true county park in South Carolina and one of the most successful.
The presentation was made at the entrance of Harbor Freight Tools, a major industry in Dillon County who utilizes PDRTA’s services. The wrapped Harbor Freight bus served as the backdrop for the presentation.
“Support from groups like the Tri-County Park not only expands access to jobs but also strengthens the region’s economic resilience and quality of life. As our region continues to grow, the need for safe, reliable public transit will only increase. Sustainable funding ensures PDRTA can continue serving as a lifeline for so many,” said Don Strickland, PDRTA’s Executive Director.
“Local investments like this go even further with a 3 for 1 federal match, turning $30,000 into a $120,000 impact, allowing us to keep buses on the road and people connected to opportunity,” Strickland said.
Dillon County Economic Development Director and Tri-County Park Board Chairman Rodney Berry said, “These funds are utilized to ensure employees have a reliable method to work. PDRTA has demonstrated consistently they are committed to our local counties and remain fleet-footed enough to act attentively and quickly to our needs.”
“PDRTA is more than just a transportation service, it’s a vital investment in the Pee Dee region’s future. We proudly serve six counties: Florence, Darlington, Chesterfield, Marlboro, Dillon and Marion, covering a service area of over 3,500 square miles. PDRTA is the largest Rural Transportation Authority in South Carolina and the third largest in the country,” said Strickland.
“PDRTA would like to recognize and sincerely thank the Tri-County Park Group and each of its members for acknowledging the critical role public transportation plays in supporting workforce development and regional growth. Their generous $30,000 contribution to PDRTA directly supports workforce transportation, helping ensure employees have a reliable way to get to work every day. PDRTA currently averages between 36,000 and 40,000 passenger trips each month with nearly 60% of those trips dedicated to taking employees to their jobs,” Strickland said.
Pictured are Davd Adorno, PDRTA Director of Operations; Dillon County Administrator Tim Harper, Dillon County Economic Developer Rodney Berry, PDRTA Executive Director Don Strickland, and Harbor Freight Driver Darlene Murphy.
PHOTO GALLERY
Photo by Johnnie Daniels/The Dillon County News, LLC
