As cities across the country address growing demand for transit services, Bus Rapid Transit systems have been implemented in small and large cities. Below is a short list of smaller U.S. cities that have launched BRT to improve transit in their communities.
CATS is currently conducting a study for BRT in Charlotte’s North Corridor. The North Corridor aims to connect the following locations: The study aims to identify future BRT service opportunities and transit projects in the Towns of Cornelius, Huntersville, Davidson in Mecklenburg County and Mooresville in Iredell County, North Carolina.
Launched in 2008, Cleveland’s Healthline replaced 108 bus stops with 36 conveniently spaced stations and reduced travel time from 40 minutes to 28. The city’s first BRT system connects the two largest regional employment areas, Downtown and University Circle. Healthline was named ‘Best’ Bus Rapid Transit in North America by the Institute for Transportation & Development Policy in 2013.
MAX is the five-mile BRT system that connects destinations throughout Fort Collins along the Mason Corridor. Launched in 2014, MAX increased ridership 75 percent over the routes it replaced within the first six months of operation.
Grand Rapids launched its 9.6-mile long Silver Line in 2014. The system serves 2,300 customers per day. The route is part of the rapid transit network in the Grand Rapids metro area. It is the first BRT service in the state of Michigan.
Planning is currently underway in Wake County for its first BRT system. It plans to provide services along the following four key corridors: New Bern Avenue, Western Boulevard (downtown Raleigh to downtown Cary), Southern Corridor (downtown Raleigh to Garner), and the Northern Corridor (downtown Raleigh north to Crabtree Boulevard). Services are expected to be fully available by 2030.
With the completion of its East Corridor Red Line in 2018, Jacksonville, Florida will be home to the southeast’s largest BRT system. When completed, the First Coast Flyer will connect 57 miles of destination travel downtown and throughout Jacksonville. According to the city, the Flyer will be an essential part of a streamlined transit system as Northeast Florida grows.
The GRTC Pulse has offered its high-capacity BRT service since June 24, 2018. The system serves a 7.6-mile route along Broad Street and Main Street, from Rocketts Landing in the City of Richmond to Willow Lawn in Henrico County, Virginia.