Bus Rapid Transit

Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) is a branded bus service that can use standard transit vehicles or advanced technology vehicles, and operates on existing roads and/or exclusive running ways. BRT typically reduces bus travel times, improves service reliability, increases the convenience of users and ultimately increases bus ridership, possibly at a lower construction cost than rail infrastructure. BRT Alternative Matrix

Fares can be collected before boarding the bus, allowing all doors of the bus to be used for loading and speeding up service. A key attribute of a Bus Rapid Transit system is the ability to employ express buses and feeder buses. With a BRT system, a feeder bus loops through a neighborhood or business area picking up passengers close to their point of origin. It then enters the busway via a special ramp and serves stations similar to a rail line. It can then leave the busway near its destination and circulate through local streets.

For more information on Bus Rapid Transit, go to Federal Transit Administration - Bus Rapid Transit Initiative