Faulk County Community Transit Update - 2023

When South Dakota declared a regional transportation plan for public transit in every county, Faulkton Area Economic Development Corp’s Quality of Life Committee went to work for Faulk County. In August 2019, Faulk County Community Transit Authority (FCCTA) was created and addressed the declaration by joining forces with Community Transit of Watertown/Sisseton, Inc. Thus, “The Bus” (as locals call it) became a reality.

Since 2019, Faulk County Transit continues giving residents an enhanced mobility option, from children riding to school to assisting elders in running errands. It also aids in community networking by giving residents transportation to and from social events.  

Today in Transit News

Today, FCCTA, still known to locals as “The Bus,” continues to offer door-to-door, on-demand transportation throughout Faulkton and one mile beyond city limits, Monday - Friday, from 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.

As of 2023, FCCTA added a mini-van, mainly for rider transportation to and from medical specialists, Medicaid-supported appointments, and veterans, as part of the Highly Rural Transportation Grant when drivers are available. The mini-van also transports riders entering Faulkton from within county limits. Both the 12-passenger bus and mini-van support disabled and handicapped passengers.

Money Matters

The Community Transit of Watertown/Sisseton (CTWSI), Inc. receives a large portion of its funding from the federal government. Funds are then distributed accordingly to the 12 transit providers under the CTWSI umbrella. Each agency is then responsible for meeting its local match based on the following criteria:

• 20% local match for administrative funds
• 50% local match for operating funds

FCCTA meets its matching requirements through rider fares, donations, and fundraisers. Currently, rider fares are $2.00 for the initial ride and $1.00 for each subsequent ride within a 24-hour span. Medicaid and veteran rides carry a higher fare and are paid for by Medicaid and the Highly Rural Transportation Grant. Out-of-town rates are based on current Medicaid rates.

Administrative funds are used to pay employee wages. FCCTA currently employs one lead bus driver, Teresa Bartholomew, and part-time drivers, Jim Wagner and Jamie Hustead. Bartholomew is responsible for scheduling and reporting information to the main office in Watertown, as well as driving. Each driver must undergo mandatory training in:

• Passenger Assistance in Securement and Sensitivity (PASS) for mobility-dependent riders
• CPR
• Fire safety
• Defensive driving
• Winter-weather courses

To keep fares low and FCCTA active, donations are always welcome. You can send your tax-deductible donations to FCCTA, PO Box 188, Faulkton, SD, or call 605-228-7938 to learn other donation options. Fundraisers will be happening, so keep an eye out for future details.

As winter rolls around, consider riding instead of driving. “The Bus” and mini-van have all the capabilities to keep you warm while the drivers keep you safe.

Transport to Faulkton 

Infrastructure is a core element of economic development and growth. Transportation is a key component of infrastructure, along with energy, communication, utilities, public facilities, and information technology, all of which are in place in the city of Faulkton.

As Faulkton continues to build its public transportation, you can build your business here. Contact Faulkton Area Economic Development and learn how possible it is to grow your business, because in Faulkton, We Believe in Possible!