Project Overview
In 2018, GRTC launched its flagship Pulse Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) line to improve service on its most used local route. This upgrade shortened travel times and increased reliability along the Broad/Main Street corridor, re-imagining what transit looks like for the greater Richmond region.
Now, GRTC is looking to upgrade at-capacity local routes with a second Pulse line. A study is underway focused on bringing the same connectivity offered by the Pulse north along Chamberlayne Avenue (U.S.1), through downtown, and across the river into the south side.
What transit exists now? Check out the regional transit map to view the existing public transportation network in the Richmond region.
Frequently Asked Questions
BRT offers many of the benefits of light-rail-style rapid transit without the same expensive infrastructure costs. The Pulse features level boarding, dedicated lanes, traffic signal priority, and real-time arrival information at every station—making it a true 21st-century rapid transit line while using existing roadway infrastructure. BRT has proven it delivers on the promise of much-needed rapid transit for the Richmond region.
This study initially examined all corridors shown below. After the first phase of assessment, the results indicated some segments were more ripe for BRT service than others.
The revised alternatives corridors that were moved forward for further, more detailed analysis to help GRTC decide which may be the best option for the first phase of expansion. Southside Option 3 was selected for further analysis and Downtown Options are still being reviewed.
Individual segments of all the potential routes for a north-south Pulse BRT corridor were examined and graded based on multiple factors of measurable and qualitative assessments of each segment.
Evaluation factors included Demographics & Land Use measures such as residential and job density, future land use, and equity needs; Transit Connectivity measures such as existing ridership, connections to existing network, and feasibility; and Multimodal Connectivity measures such as existing and planned bike and pedestrian facilities and traffic speeds.
Using the results shown in the map below, nine end-to-end alternatives were developed for potential BRT service.
We're looking for feedback! In our current phase, the focus is on determining which corridors north and south of the river will be served by the new Pulse route and which connecting points it will prioritize downtown. We're also looking to determine which bridge it should use to cross the river.
The next phase, which kicked off early 2024, will require additional engagement and get into more specifics. This includes determining street alignment, performing traffic analysis, determining station location and early stage design environmental analysis.
Major themes from the feedback included:
- A preference for the US 60 (Midlothian Turnpike) corridor
- The need to prioritize dedicated lanes
- The importance of pedestrian connections to BRT stations
- Important destinations are key: Southside Plaza, Johnston Willis Hospital, Chesterfield Town Center, Old Town Manchester, VCU, and VUU
Visit GRTC's North-South BRT Corridor Study page to stay up-to-date on this project.
