Successful BRT Projects

We can learn from other communities.

BRT projects in the United States and around the world have been very successful in transforming their communities.  Here are a few impressive stories.

RTA Health Line, Cleveland OH

Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority (GCRTA)

In partnership with the Cleveland Clinic and University Hospital, the GCRTA developed a BRT line that not only moves passengers quickly and reliably, it has moved the local economy forward towards an estimated $4.3 billion in development. Learn more.

Emerald Express (EmX), Eugene, OR

Lane Transit District (LTD) favored the BRT concept because it is appropriate in scale and cost for a community of its size, it created a more efficient transit operation, and could be developed one line at a time, as warranted by community demand and as allowed by funding. Learn more.

Metro Rapid, Los Angeles, CA

Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (Metro)

In 2000, Metro implemented two BRT corridors including key attributes such as bus signal priority, low-floor buses, and fewer stops. Passenger travel times were reduced by as much as 29 percent, and as a result, initial ridership increased by up to 40 percent, with one third of that ridership increase from new riders who had never used public transit. 20 additional corridors were developed, and the Metro Rapid Program now operates within a network of nearly 400 miles of Metro Rapid service.

Key  Features:

  • Simple route layout
  • Frequent service
  • Fewer stops
  • Level boarding/alighting
  • Bus priority at traffic signals
  • Color-coded buses and stops
  • Enhanced stations with real-time transit information

Metro Area Express (Max), Kansas City, MO

Kansas City Area Transportation Authority (KCATA)

The KCATA implemented its first Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) line in July 2005. MAX was an instant success, with ridership in this corridor increasing more than 50%. While Kansas City’s MAX line was not the first BRT line in the United States, its immediate success and affordable execution have garnered recognition across the country. MAX provides quick, convenient public transportation that helps reduce traffic congestion and auto emissions.

Key Features:

  • Unique branding for easy identification
  • 40 Stations shelters with real-time arrival signs
  • Runs 7 days a week, 5:30 am to midnight
  • Frequency: every 10 minutes at peak times; 15-30 minutes off-peak
  • 3.75 miles of exclusive transit lanes
  • Cost $21 million (80% federal, 20% local)

Select Bus Service, New York, NY

Metropolitan Transit Authority (MTA)

Select Bus Service is New York City Transit’s BRT project was introduced in 2008 to reduce travel time and road congestion and increase the level of comfort for customers.

Viva, York, ON. Canada

York Region Transit (YRT)

Mason Corridor, Fort Collins, CO