The CCT has selected BRT as the mode for operation. Many people may be wondering, "What is BRT?" BRT stands for Bus Rapid Transit. BRT is a modern, permanent mode of transportation that combines features of both a bus system and a light rail system. Like a light rail system, BRT vehicles utilize dedicated lanes but can leave the dedicated lanes to serve local destinations as needed. However, BRT uses vehicles with rubber tires on a dedicated paved surface rather than steel wheels on steel rail. BRT also has the option to travel on local roadways. The benefit of a BRT system over a LRT system is that you still get the modern technology and design, which improve the overall experience of the rider, but at a lower cost and quicker construction time.

BRT systems have been successfully implemented in Cleveland, Los Angeles, Boston, Eugene and many cities in the U.S. and abroad. The CCT would be built as an entirely separate dedicated roadway facility. Low floor vehicles with level boarding is another characteristic of a BRT system. This provides for reduced boarding time as well as providing more comfortable and convenient access for people with disabilities.

BRT Benefits:

• BRT vehicles can leave the dedicated lanes to serve local destinations, minimizing the need for multiple transfers
• Clean emission and low emission vehicles can be used
• Can provide frequent all-day service carrying more people faster than traditional fixed-route bus services that operate in mixed traffic
• Generally have lower capital costs per mile than rail systems
• Can be built in phases, providing options to the traveling public immediately, and can be expanded cost effectively
• Some feeder buses could continue along the CCT to other destinations while others would terminate at a CCT station

BRT Vehicles

• Low floors
• Level boarding and alighting
• Wide doors on both sides
• No fare collection
• Stylized, branded vehicles
• Alternative, clean fuels
•  State-of-the-art technology

BRT Running Ways

• Exclusive transitway operating in the median or adjacent to the roadway
• No mixed traffic operations
• Overpasses/underpasses at high volume intersections
• Signal controls at low volume intersections

BRT Stations

• Permanent, attractive and safe- Lighting
• Customer information
• Bus arrival information
• Off vehicle fare collection (ticket vending machines)
• Level boarding
• 1/4- to 1-mile typical station spacing

BRT in Action