Everything You Wanted to Know About Bus Rapid Transit
If you've been following METRONext, our long-range regional transportation plan, you've probably heard the term Bus Rapid Transit, or BRT, mentioned frequently.
In addition to extensions of the Red, Green and Purple light rail lines, METRO's latest regional draft transit plan calls for 75 miles of BRT along five major corridors.
It is helpful to know BRT’s history to understand the potential it offers.
In the late 1960s, the city of Curitiba, in southern Brazil, was experiencing explosive growth. With that growth came an increase in traffic and congestion. Initially, plans were in place to increase road capacity by demolishing the city's historic buildings to make way for new roads. Curitiba's newly elected mayor, however, had a much different vision.
Instead of widening roads to accommodate more traffic, Mayor Jamie Lerner, an architect and urban planner, proposed a transit system of fast, frequent and reliable buses that would operate like trains throughout the city.
In 1974, Curitiba launched its first BRT network. The new system reduced travel time throughout the city, curbed street congestion and decreased pollution. Since then, Curitiba's bus rapid transit system has become a model for other cities across the globe.
METRO Vice-President of System & Capital Planning Clint Habert said BRT can do the same for Houston.
"BRT will provide higher-speed, high-capacity, and high-frequency service similar to light rail," said Habert. "Like light rail, BRT stations will be spaced every one-half to one-mile and feature full-length platforms, seating, substantial shelters, and ticket vending machines. Sixty-foot buses used for the service will also feature all-door level boarding, ensuring universal accessibility for all riders."
Houston's first BRT line is taking shape now in the city's Uptown District. An initiative by the Uptown Development Authority, the Uptown BRT Project will help commuters bypass Galleria-area traffic by offering bus-only lanes with express service along Post Oak Boulevard and to two major transit centers.
Habert adds that BRT has the potential to be a game-changer for the region.
To see what sets bus rapid transit systems apart from a standard city bus, take a look at some of BRT's unique features:
- Dedicated Bus-Only Lanes: BRT buses operate in their own lane, separated from cars. Since buses don't mix with cars, they don't get caught in the traffic and congestion caused by cars. This means a 60-foot bus filled with 50-plus passengers isn't hindered by a dozen or so drivers stuck in traffic.
- Signal Priority: BRT buses get a green light and are prioritized over surrounding traffic for a more seamless trip from point A to B. Since buses can hold many passengers, this prioritizes the movement of people, resulting in more efficient use of our roads.
- Off-Board Fare Collection: Riders purchase fare at BRT platforms prior to boarding. This speeds up service by eliminating delays caused by passengers making on-board fare payments.
- Level Boarding: Like light rail, BRT boarding platforms are level with the floor of the bus. This allows for quick and easy boarding. It also provides riders with mobility impairments or those with strollers an accessible and easy way to board.
So, the next time you hear the term "BRT" imagine a light rail experience without the tracks. BRT combines the best features of rail with the flexibility and cost advantages of a bus.
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