search menu flickr twitter phone angle-left angle-right angle-up angle-down file-pdf link-ext doc-inv sitemap location map calendar credit-card clock facebook-squared minus plus cancel ok instagramm download inkwell
Urban Street Design Guide Index

Urban Street Design Guide
Guide Navigation
Purchase Guide

Contra-Flow Bus Lanes

Contra-flow bus lanes are typically applied to bus routes to create strategic, efficient connections rather than as a continuous application along a corridor.

The ideal contra-flow bus lane is designed similar to a regular 2-way street, with non-transit vehicles barred from using the lane or lanes in one direction.

Contra-flow bus lanes enable connectivity and shorten travel times for bus routes.

Benefits & Considerations

Contra-flow bus lanes may enable connectivity and shorten travel times for bus routes.
When there is illegal encroachment by non-transit uses, contra-flow bus lanes will be ineffective.

Critical

At contra-flow bus lanes, ONE WAY, DO NOT ENTER, and turn prohibition signs should be supplemented with an "EXCEPT BUSES" plaque.
A double-yellow centerline marking (MUTCD 3D-02) or buffer marking should be applied to separate contra-flow bus traffic from opposing traffic. If used, the buffer should be a minimum of 3 feet in width.
BUS ONLY markings (MUTCD 3D-01) should be applied to emphasize the lane and to deter drivers from using it.
Strict enforcement is necessary to maintain the lane's use and integrity.
Traffic signal coordination should be updated to reflect the 2-way flow of buses.
Arrow pavement markings should be used to indicate the path of travel.

Recommended

A 2-lane wide profile of 22–24 feet is preferred for contra-flow bus travel. This allows buses to pass other buses (and stopped vehicles) and makes the street design clearer to pedestrians. Depending on the length of the contra-flow lane and the available roadway width, a narrower lane may be acceptable.
+ More Info
Red colored paint should be applied to emphasize the lane and deter drivers from using it.

Optional

Bicycle traffic may be encouraged to use the contra-flow bus lane in certain instances, as long as the lane is wide enough to allow safe passing. Where bicycle traffic is permitted, ONE WAY, DO NOT ENTER, and turn prohibition signs should be supplemented with an "EXCEPT BUSES and BICYCLES" plaque.
Curbs, medians, or bollards may be applied to deter encroaching vehicles, though access to the curb should be maintained for emergency vehicles.

References

+ More Info

Adapted from the Urban Street Design Guide, published by Island Press.

References

References for Contra-Flow Bus Lanes: 3 found.