FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Aiken Corporation Invests to Advance Community-Wide Transportation Solutions
Partnership with the City of Aiken will evaluate microtransit options and position the community to pursue future implementation funding
AIKEN, S.C. — Thursday, September 10, 2026 — Aiken Corporation is investing $50,000 in partnership with the City of Aiken to fund a comprehensive microtransit feasibility study aimed at improving access to jobs, healthcare, education, shopping and other essential destinations throughout the community.
The study represents the first step toward determining whether an on-demand public transportation service could complement Aiken’s existing transportation network and expand mobility for residents in areas that are difficult to serve through traditional fixed-route transit.
Microtransit uses technology to connect passengers traveling in the same direction through shared, on-demand rides. Trips can typically be requested through a mobile application or by telephone, making the service accessible to residents who do not have a smartphone or reliable internet access.
City of Aiken Planning Director, Marya Moultrie has spent the past two and a half years working to bring this initiative forward and exploring how a modern, flexible transportation option could address mobility challenges within the community.
“Transportation affects nearly every aspect of a person’s life—from the ability to get to work and medical appointments to accessing education, groceries and other essential services,” said Moultrie. “After two and a half years of working to advance this initiative, I am grateful for Aiken Corporation’s investment and partnership. This study will allow us to engage the community, evaluate Aiken’s specific transportation needs and develop a data-driven plan that positions us to pursue the future funding needed for a community-wide rollout.”
The approximately six-month study will examine existing transportation services, demographic and employment patterns, gaps in mobility and areas with the greatest transportation needs. It will also include interviews, stakeholder meetings and public workshops to ensure that residents, businesses, community organizations and local government partners have opportunities to help shape potential service options.
Several possible microtransit service models and geographic areas will be developed and evaluated. Each alternative will be analyzed based on projected ridership, service coverage, wait times, vehicle requirements, operating costs, accessibility and its ability to connect residents with key destinations and emerging employment areas.
The final report will provide the City with actionable recommendations for implementation, including potential service areas, operating models, equipment needs, community engagement strategies and projected costs.
The $50,000 investment funds the planning and feasibility phase rather than the operation of a community-wide transportation service. Completing this work is a critical step toward implementation because it will provide the data, cost estimates and defined service plan commonly required when pursuing federal and state grants, philanthropic support, employer partnerships and other funding sources.
“Aiken Corporation is proud to support the work Marya has led on behalf of the City and our community,” said Megan Pruitt, Executive Director of Aiken Corporation. “Her persistence and vision brought this initiative to the point where we can now take a meaningful next step. This investment allows us to move beyond simply identifying transportation as a challenge and begin building a practical, fundable solution.”
Reliable transportation can strengthen the local economy by helping employers connect with a broader workforce while giving residents greater access to employment, medical care, education and other opportunities.
“This partnership is about building the foundation for a transportation solution that is practical, sustainable and designed around Aiken’s needs,” Pruitt added. “The study will give our community a clear roadmap and strengthen Aiken’s ability to secure future funding for a broader rollout.”
The study will evaluate microtransit as a potential complement to existing services, including the Best Friend Express fixed-route network and Dial-a-Ride paratransit service. No final service model or coverage area has been selected. Those recommendations will be informed by data analysis and community participation throughout the study.
Additional information about public engagement opportunities will be announced as the study progresses.
About Aiken Corporation
Aiken Corporation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing economic development, community investment and initiatives that contribute to a stronger and more connected Aiken. Through strategic partnerships and purpose-driven investments, Aiken Corporation works to support opportunities that benefit residents, businesses and the broader community.
Media Contact:
Megan Pruitt
Executive Director
Aiken Corporation
Megan@aikencorporation.org
803-522-4728