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Huggins Offers Plan for Transforming Transportation in Midlands

COLUMBIA, S.C. – The Central Midlands Regional Transit Authority (CMRTA) must undergo a series of immediate changes if we are to begin transforming transportation in the Midlands, according to CMRTA advisor Derrick Huggins.

“We need to work together. We can’t just throw rocks. We need our community leaders to lead,” Huggins said on Thursday before a crowd of more than 100 at a forum hosted by the Greater Columbia Chamber of Commerce at IT-oLogy.

Huggins proposed a plan that recommended multiple “catalysts for transformation,” including restructuring the CMRTA board, hiring a dynamic new executive director, creating a competitive bidding process for operator services, and increasing transparency and accountability.

He also emphasized that the transit authority must secure sustainable funding, revitalize its image, improve operations, explore system innovations, and expand community partnerships.

Huggins, an associate vice president for transportation at the University of South Carolina, served as an advisor to the CMRTA from March 1 to May 31.

“What Derrick has given us today is a new road to travel,” said Mike Brenan, Chairman of the Columbia Chamber’s Board of Directors. “As of today, the future isn’t what it was yesterday.”

Brenan noted that improving transportation is a vital part of improving the Midlands.

“There is not a great American city that doesn’t have a great public transportation system,” Brenan said. “If we want a great American city, we need a great public transportation system.”

Joyce Dickerson, who serves as the Chair of the CMRTA Board, said she is hopeful Huggins’ plan will be the beginning of a new journey for the CMRTA.

“We have a lot of struggles to overcome, but we are where we are,” Dickerson said. “We are here today looking forward saying that we cannot stay here. We must move forward.”

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Nicole Curtis
Director of Communications
Greater Columbia Chamber of Commerce
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