PUBLIC TRANSIT: Tampa begins testing of new bus rapid transit system

Nov. 26, 2012

The Hillsborough Area Regional Transit Authority (HART) has begun testing of the vehicles for its new bus rapid transit service that the agency hopes will improve travel times between and around Tampa, Fla., and its northeast suburbs.

 

Six vehicles are part of the initial run, with the full fleet of 12 buses scheduled for operation by the end of 2012.

 

The Hillsborough Area Regional Transit Authority (HART) has begun testing of the vehicles for its new bus rapid transit service that the agency hopes will improve travel times between and around Tampa, Fla., and its northeast suburbs.

Six vehicles are part of the initial run, with the full fleet of 12 buses scheduled for operation by the end of 2012.

The new MetroRapid route will cover a 17.5-mile route on a Monday-Friday, 5 a.m.-8 p.m. schedule. Compared to conventional bus routes, MetroRapid buses will only make 25 stops along the route, which HART estimates will be the primary source of time savings.

The agency estimates that travel times from one end of the route to the other will be approximately 55 minutes. Each bus is equipped with technology allowing them to either prolong green lights or shorten red lights at an intersection. Each vehicle—costing an estimated $400,00—will seat 37 passengers, with standing room for an additional 41 riders.

Sponsored Recommendations

The Science Behind Sustainable Concrete Sealing Solutions

Extend the lifespan and durability of any concrete. PoreShield is a USDA BioPreferred product and is approved for residential, commercial, and industrial use. It works great above...

Proven Concrete Protection That’s Safe & Sustainable

Real-life DOT field tests and university researchers have found that PoreShieldTM lasts for 10+ years and extends the life of concrete.

Revolutionizing Concrete Protection - A Sustainable Solution for Lasting Durability

The concrete at the Indiana State Fairgrounds & Event Center is subject to several potential sources of damage including livestock biowaste, food/beverage waste, and freeze/thaw...

The Future of Concrete Preservation

PoreShield is a cost-effective, nontoxic alternative to traditional concrete sealers. It works differently, absorbing deep into the concrete pores to block damage from salt ions...