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2010•Transportation research circularRequires access

Bus Rapid Transit as a Precursor of Light Rail Transit

Lyndon Henry, David Dobbs

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Abstract

Can high-quality bus services—often described as bus rapid transit (BRT)–effectively function as a precursor of a subsequent electric light rail transit (LRT) system? This issue is frequently raised in at least two planning situations: (a) the alignment is envisioned ultimately for LRT, but a low-capital-cost BRT-type service is undertaken until ridership demand in the given corridor grows to justify a heavier rail investment; and (b) installation of a new LRT system or line is under way, and a BRT-type service is implemented to help build interim ridership in anticipation of the new electric rail service. This paper looks at design features that can facilitate a transition from BRT to LRT, as well as challenges and drawbacks. Several specific examples where the issue of converting or transitioning from BRT-type operations to LRT has been raised are then examined.

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What this paper is about

Can high-quality bus services—often described as bus rapid transit (BRT)–effectively function as a precursor of a subsequent electric light rail transit (LRT) system? This issue is frequently raised in at least two planning situations: (a) the alignment is envisioned ultimately for LRT, but a low-capital-cost BRT-type service is undertaken until ridership demand in the given corridor grows to justify a heavier rail investment; and (b) installation of a new LRT system or line is under way, and a BRT-type service is implemented to help build interim ridership in anticipation of the new electric rail service. This paper looks at design features that can facilitate a transition from BRT to LRT, as well as challenges and drawbacks. Several specific examples where the issue of converting or transitioning from BRT-type operations to LRT has been raised are then examined.

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Available abstract

Can high-quality bus services—often described as bus rapid transit (BRT)–effectively function as a precursor of a subsequent electric light rail transit (LRT) system? This issue is frequently raised in at least two planning situations: (a) the alignment is envisioned ultimately for LRT, but a low-capital-cost BRT-type service is undertaken until ridership demand in the given corridor grows to justify a heavier rail investment; and (b) installation of a new LRT system or line is under way, and a BRT-type service is implemented to help build interim ridership in anticipation of the new electric rail service. This paper looks at design features that can facilitate a transition from BRT to LRT, as well as challenges and drawbacks. Several specific examples where the issue of converting or transitioning from BRT-type operations to LRT has been raised are then examined.

Key concepts: Bus rapid transit, Transport engineering, Light rail transit, Transit (satellite), Light rail, Service (business), Rail transit, Capital investment

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