What is bus rapid transit?
Bus rapid transit brings additional station amenities, faster transit service, and a more comfortable ride. This includes:
More frequent service:
- Provides all-day service that operates seven days a week with buses arriving every 10-15 minutes during peak and midday times
A faster ride:
- Pay before you board so the bus leaves the station faster
- Raised platforms help you step or roll on and off easily
- Fewer stops than local routes and bus lanes that help keep the bus moving
- Buses are given priority at key traffic signals to “ask” for green lights
Stations with enhanced amenities:
- Shelters will provide comfortable waiting space and a variety of amenities: NexTrip real-time departure signs, maps, heating, lighting, bike racks, and added security with cameras and emergency telephones
Unique and recognizable buses:
- Buses with wider aisles, wider doors for easier boarding, and folding seats to make room for wheelchairs and strollers
Why is Bronze Line needed?
- Serving the needs of people who rely on transit
- Supporting those who can’t afford, are unable, or choose not to drive
- Meeting increasing demand for reliable, high-frequency transit
- Planning for sustainable growth and development
- Tackling traffic congestion by expanding reliable transit services and guiding transit-oriented, walkable development
- Expanding multimodal travel options
- Addressing air quality and greenhouse gas emissions by shifting independent car trips to transit trips
How much will it cost to ride the Bronze Line?
Bronze Line will have the same fare as METRO/local bus service. There will be no extra charge for this service. Seniors, youth, Medicare card holders and people with disabilities qualify for reduced fares.
Can general traffic use the bus lanes?
Dedicated bus lanes will be marked with signs prohibiting general traffic. General traffic will not be allowed to use the dedicated bus lanes between Arcade Station and Maryland Avenue in St. Paul. Side-running, on-street bus lanes will be open to general traffic to make right turns onto streets or into driveways. General traffic is not allowed to use on-street bus lanes to pass traffic or travel through intersections.
What is Metro Transit doing to improve safety and security on the transit system?
To better serve customers and staff, build confidence among prospective customers, and position Metro Transit as a great place to work, a concerted effort is being made to improve public safety on transit. Agency-led efforts are summarized in the Safety & Security Action Plan.
How is the Bronze Line being funded?
The METRO Bronze Line will be using local funding to design and construct the project. Ramsey County will contribute 90% and Met Council will contribute 10% of the capital costs.
What is the environmental process with this project?
An Environmental Assessment Worksheet (EAW) is expected to be completed for the new project through the State of Minnesota’s Environmental Review Program to satisfy the Minnesota Environmental Policy Act. An EAW describes a project, its potential effects on air, land, and water resources, and ways to reduce potential environmental impacts. All required environmental permits and approvals are expected to be obtained for the new project.
When will construction begin? When will the Bronze Line open?
An overall schedule for designing, constructing and opening the new project is currently under development. More information about the longer-term schedule will be shared once it is available. Construction is not currently expected before 2028.