Busways
A busway, also known as a bus rapid transit (BRT) system, is a roadway or lane that is dedicated exclusively to buses. Busways are designed to improve the speed and reliability of bus transit, by avoiding traffic congestion experienced by general traffic. They are a key component of many BRT systems, which aim to provide a high-quality, rapid transit experience similar to light rail or metro systems, but at a lower cost.
Busways can take various forms, including:
- Exclusive Bus Lanes: Lanes on existing roadways that are reserved for buses, often during peak hours.
- Dedicated Bus Roadways: Entirely new roadways constructed specifically for bus use, separate from general traffic. These can be elevated, at-grade, or underground.
- Shoulder Bus Lanes: Using the shoulder of a highway as a bus lane, typically during periods of congestion.
The effectiveness of a busway depends on several factors, including the length of the busway, the frequency of bus service, the quality of the bus fleet, and the integration of the busway with other transportation modes. Well-designed busways can significantly reduce travel times, improve bus ridership, and reduce traffic congestion. They often include features like off-board fare collection, level boarding platforms, and traffic signal priority to further enhance their efficiency.
Busways are often implemented as part of a broader transportation strategy to encourage public transit use and reduce reliance on private vehicles. They are a common element in urban planning and transportation engineering aimed at creating sustainable and efficient transportation systems.