Answer:  Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) is a new and cost-effective way of providing high-quality transit service with buses.  The buses operate primarily in bus-only lanes with light rail-like service characteristics and station spacing.  Traffic signals are modified giving buses priority, helping them move more quickly and reliably.

BRT stations are similar to light rail stations, each with a boarding platform, shelter, proof-of-payment ticket validation and security features.  BRT is much less expensive than light rail to construct and operate and retains the flexibility to operate in conventional traffic lanes.

Question:  How many passengers will the BRT vehicles hold?

Answer:  BRT vehicles may hold 40-60 passengers or more, depending on the style of vehicle.  Different sizes of vehicles may operate on different types of service (express vs. station-to-station).

Question:  How much does one of the BRT vehicles cost?

Answer:  BRT vehicles can cost $300,000 to more than $1,000,000 apiece.  The MVTA anticipates purchasing lower-cost vehicles, based on the funding that has been secured for these vehicles.

Question:  How frequent are the BRT vehicles expected to operate?

Answer:  The service plan is not in place at this time, but express buses are expected to operate frequently during the peak period.  When all-day, station-to-station service begins, the frequency could be as often as every 15 minutes.

Question: What will the  hours of service be?

Answer:  This has not yet been determined.

Question: Where will stops be?  BRT Stations?  Park & Ride lots?

Answer:  Stations as stops will be as follows:  Cedar Grove Station (Park & Ride currently under construction), 140th St. Stop (currently under reconsideration), 147th St. Stop (currently under reconsideration), Apple Valley Transit Station (new site is currently under construction located across 155th St. from the existing transit station); and the Lakeville Station (Park & Ride located at 181st & Cedar - construction slated to begin soon).

 


 New Apple Valley Transit Station