BRT: Bus Rapid Transit

Many cities across the US and around the world have implemented successful high-capacity transit corridors using BRT. MARTA is working to expand service with this new mode in several communities in Atlanta. 

How It Works

MARTA General Manager and CEO Collie Greenwood takes us on a brief tour to see the rail-like features of a bus rapid transit system in Indianapolis.

BRT features offer a rail-like experience

• Bus-only lanes | bypass traffic
• Traffic signal priority | less waiting at red lights
• Defined and robust stations with level platform boarding
• Real-time arrival information displays
• Fare vending and off-board fare collection | faster boarding
• Larger articulated buses | more room onboard
• Pedestrian safety improvements and improved crossings
  

BRT in Other US Cities

Indianapolis
This all-electric BRT route operates through downtown Indianapolis and uses special buses with doors on both sides to serve stations with center platforms in the middle of the street. IndyGo and the City of Indianapolis have worked together to implement policies that are driving transit-oriented development around these BRT stations.

For more information about specific features of the Red Line BRT, check out our in-depth study video here.

Houston
The Silver Line BRT has robust transit lanes protected by concrete curbs and planted medians, plus truly level boarding platforms and off-board fare payment at stations. The center-running lanes allow for shortened crossing distances among other corridor improvements for pedestrian safety.

For more information about specific features of the Silver Line BRT, check out our in-depth study video here.

San Francisco
The Van Ness BRT corridor opened on April 1, 2022, and is already seeing an increase in ridership while transit-oriented development continues all around the transit line.

For more information about specific features of the Van Ness BRT, check out our in-depth study video here.

BRT Testimonials

Clayton County Commissioners Experience BRT in Indianapolis

The Impink Family in Indianapolis

Jerome in Indianapolis

Martha in San Francisco

Steve in San Francisco

BRT in Atlanta

Campbellton Corridor BRT
A center-running bus rapid transit line through Southwest Atlanta with a connection to the Red & Gold Lines at Oakland City Station.

Learn more about this project here.

Summerhill BRT
A curb-running bus rapid transit line through Southeast Atlanta with a connection to all rail lines at Five Points Station.

Learn more about this project here.

Additional BRT Resources

San Francisco Van Ness BRT Corridor
Houston Silver Line BRT
Indianapolis Red Line BRT
Charleston, SC BRT study
Federal Transit Administration BRT Resource Page
UITP: Transforming Cities with BRT Systems

News Media Resources