Getting Around Florence: Walkability, Public Transit & Biking

Florence's walkability is limited, primarily in its downtown area where travelers can find a few walkable streets with restaurants, shops, and cultural attractions. However, the city as a whole is quite car-dependent, with most daily errands requiring a vehicle. While there are sidewalks in some regions, they do not provide sufficient connectivity to essential services and amenities, making it challenging for travelers without a car. Moreover, pedestrian safety is a concern due to a higher than average fatality rate, reflecting the need for better pedestrian infrastructure.

Florence's public transit is limited, with the Pee Dee Regional Transportation Authority providing some bus services. These routes, while beneficial, do not fully cover the city and may not be frequent enough for a traveler's needs. Despite efforts to improve connectivity and access, the current system might not be convenient for travelers relying solely on public transportation for work and leisure activities, making it less viable compared to other modes of transport.

Florence offers some bike-friendly features, including dedicated trails like the Florence Rail Trail and High Hill Creek Bike & Run Park. The city's terrain is relatively flat, assisting in ease of travel by bike. However, outside these dedicated paths, cyclists might contend with sharing roads with heavy traffic, which could deter travelers from using biking as their primary mode of transportation. Despite being relatively bikeable compared to other South Carolina cities, the infrastructure is not widespread enough to support extensive biking across the city.