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 modifiedk 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 oeprate?

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), 140th St. Stop (possible future park & ride), 147th St. Stop, New Apple Valley Transit Station (Park & Ride located at the site of the former Watson's at 155th & Cedar); and the Lakeville Station (Park & Ride located at 179th & Cedar).