How Bus Rapid Transit’s Flexibility is Helping Communities Expand Public Transit

Boosting public transportation ridership has remained a challenge for communities following the COVID-19 pandemic. As transit agencies work to address this issue, BRT has gained in popularity for its efficiency and flexibility. Successfully delivering a BRT system requires a deep understanding of the needs of a community, awareness of effective funding strategies and knowledge of the broader transportation system.

Gina Thomas is HDR’s global BRT lead. She has held leading roles in the delivery of many notable BRT projects where she has focused on helping both large and small communities understand the benefits of BRT systems and how these projects can be tailored to improve mobility and advance public transportation goals. In the latest from HDR’s Experts Talk interview series, she discusses why BRT has become a popular public transportation option in cities around the world, explains the funding opportunities available to support BRT planning and implementation in the U.S., addresses the challenges and opportunities associated with electric buses, and reflects on how community input can help shape the design and future success.

“Cities and transit agencies are working with limited budgets to quickly deliver tangible public transportation benefits to their communities while seeking ways to rebuild ridership following COVID,” Thomas said. “Some don’t have the time, funds or need to warrant investing in a larger rail project but still want to offer fast and reliable transit service. This is where BRT can bridge the gap.”

HDR’s Experts Talk interview series shines a light on various aspects of transportation infrastructure design and delivery. Each subject matter expert offers unique expertise and insights about new and ongoing trends, emerging technologies and the human side of infrastructure.

Read the whole interview on how BRT is reshaping urban mobility and safety.