MVTA to Operate BRT in Dakota County
BRT has been defined by the FTA as a rapid mode of transportation that can provide the quality of rail transit and the flexibility of buses. The definition has been expanded to include a rubber-tired form of rapid transit that combines stations, vehicles, services, running ways, and Intelligent Transportation System (ITS) elements into an integrated system with a strong image and identity. In brief, BRT is an integrated system of facilities, equipment, services, and amenities that improves the speed, reliability, and identity of bus transit. BRT is, in many respects, rubber-tired light rail transit (LRT) with greater operating flexibility and potentially lower costs.
Currently, the MVTA is working to place BRT facilities along the Cedar corridor. Stops, stations or park & rides are being considered at Cedar Grove in Eagan, at 140th, 147th, 155th in Apple Valley and at 185th, 195th and 215th Streets in Lakeville.
The current timeline seeks a decision about the roadway alternatives in December 2007, with the environmental review to follow (expected to take about one year). The MVTA will be working to develop a service plan and order BRT vehicles, in order to be ready to begin phase one of the Bus Rapid Transit in 2010. In the meantime, the MVTA will be working to finalize sites for stops, stations and park & rides, facility designs, a marketing look for the vehicles, and more.
The MVTA, the public transportation provider for the businesses and residents of Apple Valley, Burnsville, Eagan, Rosemount and Savage, are also reaching out to nearby communities including Lakeville and Farmington. Lakeville is slated to receive BRT service, but must first join the transit taxing district. Discussions have started between the MVTA and Lakeville/Farmington to determine how best to work together.
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