Lowcountry Area Transportation Study (LATS)

LATS is a public, transportation policy-making organization made up of representatives from local government and government transportation authorities.

Why is the LATS important?

LATS receives and distributes federal funding for transportation projects and programs based on long-range transportation plans and budgets developed by LATS.

Why was the LATS formed?

The 2010 Census changed the designation of Hilton Head Island and the surrounding areas (Bluffton, Hardeeville, Beaufort, and Port Royal) to a Small Urban Area.

Federal regulations require each Small Urban Area to form a group like LATS to ensure regional cooperation in transportation planning. LATS was formed in 2013 to meet the federal requirement.

Who is in the LATS?

One member of Town Council serves on the LATS Policy Committee.

The other voting members are representatives from area municipalities and counties, the South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT), the Lowcountry Regional Transportation Authority (Palmetto Breeze), and members of the state house and senate.

Can I attend LATS meetings?

Yes, the meetings are open to the public. The meeting schedule, agenda, and other information is available at www.lowcountrycog.org/planning_and_transportation/transportation/lats_mpo/

Resources