Transit Advantages

Better Bus Routes

Our goal is to make riding local bus service easy and enjoyable. In the Twin Cities, local bus rides account for the majority of all bus trips, with more than 72,000 rides each weekday. We want these customers to enjoy the best experience possible.

The Better Bus Route program improves local bus routes not identified for near-term bus rapid transit investments. The approach is to implement quick, low-cost improvements that make a noticeable difference in the customer experience. 

Project Goal Strategy
Improve the speed and reliability of service Consolidate bus stops for up to ¼ -mile spacing, or making other adjustments to improve bus stop placement
Improve customer access at the bus stop

Ensure that all bus stops are ADA-accessible; if not, install concrete pads to improve accessibility

Expand the no-parking zone to ensure buses can fully pull to the curb at the bus stop
Improve the waiting experience at the bus stop Install new shelters at qualifying bus stops
Make service easier for everyday customers to understand Simplify the route and schedule; consider removing low-ridership branches or route deviations
Increase bus driver satisfaction More consistent travel times, more rest times at both ends of the route, and look for opportunities to improve restroom access

Between 2018 and 2025, Metro Transit completed eight Better Bus Route projects – routes 2, 63, 3, 22, 17, 4, 7, and 61. Looking ahead, we plan on implementing two new projects annually. View our evaluation and prioritization of future projects. 

Our 2026 projects: