Camden City Council Member William Wilkes has been elected Chairman of the Board of Directors for the Santee Wateree Regional Transportation Authority, placing Camden in a key leadership role in advancing regional transportation and connectivity.

Wilkes, who was elected to Camden City Council in November 2024, is the first Chairman of the Board from Kershaw County since the Santee Wateree Regional Transportation Authority was established in 1978. He will lead the regional authority in its efforts to enhance transportation services, improve accessibility, and strengthen connections between communities across the Santee Wateree region.

The Santee Wateree Regional Transportation Authority coordinates public transportation resources and works to expand mobility options for residents, supporting workforce access, healthcare connectivity, and regional economic development.

“I’m grateful for the confidence of my colleagues and look forward to working together,” Wilkes said. “Transportation is one of the clearest ways we expand opportunity. It connects people to jobs, healthcare, and the services they rely on every day. We are focused on making this organization stronger, more reliable, and better equipped to serve our communities across the region.”

As Chairman, Wilkes will work with regional partners, local governments, and stakeholders to guide strategic planning efforts and strengthen transportation infrastructure and services.

The SWRTA Board of Directors consists of members appointed by participating counties, municipalities, and other authorized appointing entities.

This milestone reflects the City of Camden’s continued commitment to regional partnerships that enhance quality of life for residents both locally and across the broader region.

For more information about the Santee Wateree Regional Transportation Authority, including services, routes, and meeting details, visit www.swrta.com.