Building streets to support transit entails considering every passenger’s trip from start to finish. People walking to the transit stop should find their path safe and inviting. Dedicated transit lanes, appropriate base signal timings, and operational traffic improvements ensure that the transit vehicle experiences minimal wait time at intersections and can move freely regardless of traffic congestion, providing a passenger experience competitive with driving. Transit stops also play an important role as part of the streetscape. They have the potential to enhance the quality of the public realm when integrated with certain key features, such as quality bus shelters, wayfinding maps, and real-time information systems.
The recommendations here focus on bus transit. However, many of the same set of treatments would also apply to streetcar or on-street light rail transit.
Transit Street Design Guide
Learn more about transit streets in NACTO’s Transit Street Design Guide.