The Statesboro Area Transit system has experienced great growth since it first began in May 2023.
To gain more perspectives on the transit system's community impact, Grice Connect's Brandon Robinson spoke with a City of Statesboro SAT Civil Engineer, a SAT driver, and a local rider to hear how the transit system has improved affordable commuting in Statesboro.
The Rapid Growth of Statesboro Area Transit System since May 2023
The City of Statesboro regularly monitors SAT statistics on its ridership and any changes over time.
The graph below depicts how ridership began with 61 passengers in May 2023, but increased to 1,130 passengers by October 2023. The graph also shows that the busiest days for ridership are Wednesdays and Fridays.
Improving Affordable Commuting in Statesboro: Insights from SAT Civil Engineer and Drivers
"In addition to the numbers on the graph, November 2023 and December 2023 SAT numbers have been released as well," Kiara Ahmed, Civil Engineer at the City of Statesboro, said. "November 2023 ridership was 1,495 passengers and December 2023 ridership was 1,317 passengers. The total number of passengers we have had since May 2023 are 7,075 riders."
Ahmed continued, "The Blue Route gets a bit more ridership than the Red Route. But some of the most popular stops in general are the Health Department, Walmart, Cambridge, and the hospital. Many residents are enjoying the convenience and affordability of the SAT system, especially regarding going to appointments or running everyday errands."
Community Impact: Perspectives from City Officials, Drivers, and Local Riders
Recently, we got on one of the SAT buses to talk to those who know it best -- one of its drivers and one of its frequent passengers.
Dana Scudder has been a driver for SAT since it began in May 2023. She is originally from Waycross, Ga., but moved to Statesboro recently.
"One of the biggest things that I've heard from my riders is how much the bus route was needed. Riders have expressed that it was needed for those who don't normally drive around or have the accessibility to do so," shared Scudder.
"When I first moved here from Waycross, I also felt that it was something that was needed. So, it has been great seeing it come to fruition and helping out so many people in need of public transportation," Scudder added.
A local passenger, Roberts, similarly stated, "I've rode the bus since it started in May 2023 and it has been wonderful. I am retired and ride the transit daily. All of the bus drivers are very friendly and it's an affordable option for people who need public transportation daily."
About the Statesboro Area Transit
With over 30 stops around the city, the Statesboro Area Transit provides greater access to shopping, healthcare, community events, and much more. It’s an easy, quick, safe, and affordable way to commute around the local community. Statesboro Area Transit is operated by the Coastal Regional Commission of Georgia.
SAT hours of operation are Monday through Friday 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Fare rates start at just $1 for a one-way trip and $2 for a round trip. Only cash and exact change will be accepted at this time. Discounted rates are available for seniors, college students, and individuals with disabilities. To obtain a discount card, riders will need to visit the city’s engineering department at City Hall (50 E Main Street, Statesboro).
The transit system features two fixed routes, a Blue and Red route with two buses assigned to each route. Click HERE to view the route map.
For more information about the Statesboro Area Transit, visit https://www.statesboroga.gov/sat, call 1-800-574-5097, or email [email protected].
