Why Bus Rapid Transit?
Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) is a high-quality bus service that provides faster, more reliable and convenient service through the use of several key attributes, including, dedicated bus lanes, branded vehicles and stations, higher frequency, intelligent transportation systems, and possible off-board fare collection and/or all door boarding. BRT helps avoid some of the normal delays typically experienced by regular bus service traveling in mixed flow traffic. BRT has the potential to increase transit access, improve regional mobility, reduce transportation costs, and ease commutes.
Key BRT features include:
- More frequent service with limited stops
- Peak period or full-time dedicated bus lanes
- Transit signal priority
- Branded vehicles/stations
- Customer friendly stations/stops with passenger amenities
- Real-time bus arrival information
- All-door boarding
BRT can travel:
- Curb-running dedicated lanes
- Median-running dedicated lanes
Curb Running BRT
Median Running BRT
Why study BRT?
Metro is always seeking opportunities to:
- Improve transit service for both existing and future riders
- Attract new riders
- Improve bus travel speeds, service reliability and/or on-time performance
- Enhance passenger comfort and convenience
- Ease traffic congestion
- Reduce bus/auto conflicts
What is the schedule for the BRT Corridor Technical Studies and where are we in that process?
The two BRT Corridor Technical Studies began in August 2015. Each study is scheduled to take approximately 14 months and should be completed in Fall 2016. When complete, a final report and recommendations will be presented to the Metro Board for their consideration and further direction.
Are these projects funded?
The BRT Corridor Technical Studies are not included in Metro’s adopted 2009 Long Range Transportation Plan (LRTP), which is currently being updated. Both projects are being considered as part of the Draft Expenditure Plan for a November 2016 potential ballot measure being considered by the Metro Board. On March 24 th , the Metro Board authorized the release of the Draft Expenditure Plan for a public review period. It is anticipated that the Metro Board will make a decision as to whether to place the measure on the November 2016 ballot in June 2016.