What is Bus Rapid Transit?
Learn what a BRT system can look like and how it can be tailored to meet the community's transportation needs!
BRT 101
What is BRT to Phoenix?
Bus Rapid Transit - or BRT - is a high capacity bus service that provides a fast, reliable, and convenient transit experience…and this new transit option is coming to Phoenix. BRT is part of our commitment to you in the Transportation 2050 Plan (T2050).
BRT 101
Elements of BRT
BRT is unique because there are no universal standards. Which means it can be planned and designed to best meet the needs of the community. However, there are a series of recurring elements found in successful BRT systems, and the more elements that are incorporated into a system, the more likely it is to succeed as an effective, efficient transportation service. The six recurring elements can be found below:
Advanced Fare Collection
Advanced fare collection or mobile fare payment allows rider to pay before boarding the bus through mobile apps, reloadable smart cards or ticket kiosks.
Transit Spot Improvements
Transit spot improvements include queue jump lanes, creating additional bus-only lanes at intersections, essentially giving buses a head start at the intersection. It also includes transit signal priority, which modifies the normal signal operation process to better accommodate buses by holding the green time longer or shortening the red time.
Enhanced Stations
Enhanced stations include center or side running stations with level boarding, canopies, seating, real-time information and ticket vending machines.
Custom Buses
Custom buses include low floors for level boarding; higher passenger capacity, multiple doors and amenities like USB chargers and space for bikes on board.
Dedicated Lanes
BRT may include dedicated lanes that will separate buses from traffic to increase speed and reliability.
Unique Branding
Unique branding will differentiate BRT from other transit modes through both nomenclature (name) and unique visual components such as logo and color scheme.
BRT 101
Benefits of BRT
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Faster and More Frequent Service
BRT is typically 20 to 25 percent faster than local bus service. -
Increased Cost Efficiency
BRT can reduce costs because the vehicles make fewer stops, which increases the overall travel speed of the vehicle and therefore reduces the number of vehicles needed to provide the service. -
Reduced Travel Delays
BRT can benefit transit users by removing the bus from mixed traffic in congested areas and keep passengers moving.