New gate arms deployed to enhance safety

New rail-like gate arms are being activated at various roadway intersections along the South Dade TransitWay to enhance safety for drivers, cyclists, pedestrians, and transit riders.

The gate arms are being installed on the TransitWay to allow express Metrobus routes to travel efficiently along the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) corridor from Homestead to Dadeland South. BRT service is scheduled to start in 2025. Learn more about BRT service.

We thank residents for their understanding and apologize for any inconveniences during this rollout phase, which requires ongoing adjustments and further refinements. Watch this video to see how the gate arms function along the TransitWay.

See the list of the roadway intersections where the gate arms are being activated. 

SAFETY TIPS: Everyone should be alert and follow these simple guidelines when driving through these intersections:

• Don’t Rush. Slow Down and Stay Alert: Reduce your speed and pay close attention to signals, warning signs, and gate arm movements.
• Obey All Signs and Signals: Only proceed when the gate is fully raised, and the red or flashing lights are off. Never try to drive through as the arm is closing nor block the intersection.
• Respect the Gate. Safety First:  If the gate is descending, come to a complete stop. Trying to beat the arm is dangerous.
• Minimize Distractions: Stay focused – avoid using mobile devices or engaging in activities that take your attention away from the road.
• Watch for Pedestrians and Cyclists: Remain aware of others who may also be navigating the intersection.

By following these tips, we can ensure a smooth transition and keep everyone safe. Thank you for your patience and cooperation while we continue to work on enhancing everyone’s commute in South Dade. 

FAQ

• What is Bus Rapid Transit (BRT)?
  The South Dade TransitWay is a Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system that will be one of the world’s most advanced, providing rail-like, high-speed electric bus service along a 20-mile corridor. The future-ready system will operate in dedicated lanes with traffic signal priority, ensuring fast, reliable, and sustainable travel. It will serve communities from the Dadeland South Metrorail Station to the SW 344th Street Park-and-Ride/Transit Terminal, running parallel to US1. The South Dade TransitWay Bus Rapid Transit system is scheduled to be operational by summer of 2025.
  
  
• What is the difference between the existing local service and the new BRT system?
  The new BRT service will implement the use of Transit Signal Priority (TSP). TSP gives priority to transit vehicles at signalized intersections to improve bus travel times by allowing buses to communicate with traffic signals as they approach an intersection, giving them quicker green lights. Once fully operational, the system will result in improved frequency and reduced travel times. 
  
  
• What are the benefits to the community?
  The BRT’s all-electric vehicles will offer safe, dependable service along the South Corridor, connecting communities to schools, parks, transit stops, workplaces, and shopping areas. It is a cost-effective alternative to expanding the Metrorail, saving Miami-Dade County hundreds of millions while delivering similar benefits. With this new service, the community will have an express north-south travel option.
  
  
• What should drivers expect during the implementation phase?
  Since the system is currently in the rollout phase, delays may occur due to the deployment of new signal and safety equipment, such as warning lights and gate arms.
  
  Some drivers may also experience signal disruptions as signal timing configurations are being implemented and adjusted. Signage will be posted along the corridor to increase awareness of the signal timing changes. Dynamic message signs will also be placed near key intersections to display real-time information such as gate arm deployment schedules. Visit South Dade TransitWay for more information.
  
  
• Are the gate arms operational at all intersections?
  The 46 intersections along the 20-mile corridor are scheduled to deploy gate arms in three phases. This phased approach ensures an efficient roll-out of the new service, minimizing impacts to commuters. Phase one opened late fall of 2024, while phases two and three will start at the beginning of 2025. This is the best approach to ensure a successful, safe expansion of the new BRT system. 
  
  
• What can drivers expect when the BRT is operational?
  North and southbound US-1 routes will have longer green lights. Minor delays may occur for cross street traffic at intersections due to signal prioritization for BRT dedicated lanes.
  
  Gate arms will descend as physical barrier and visual signal to alert drivers and pedestrians of an approaching bus. Local law enforcement will issue citations to all unauthorized vehicles on TransitWay. Tickets may result in points on a driver’s license or penalty fines.
  
  
• What are safety guidelines for driving through intersections?
  Drivers should remember these safety tips:
  • If the gate arm is descending, drivers must come to a complete stop. The gate arms are a visual signal that a bus is approaching the intersection.
  • Continue obeying the traffic signals. Failure to do will result in a citation.
  • Proceed through the intersection only after the gate arm is fully raised, and the red or flashing lights are off.
  • Drivers should watch for bike/ped users upon approaching the intersection. Pedestrians and cyclists will also use the intersections to cross the street and access the BRT system.
    
    
• Will the existing local service connect to the new BRT, Metro Express, service?
  The existing local bus service will continue to operate on the TransitWay, picking up riders at all 34 bus stops, which includes the new BRT stations. Riders using the local service can transfer to the Metro Express service at any of the 14 BRT stations. 
  
  
• What can riders expect at the new BRT station?
  The BRT stations will offer an array of amenities to improve the riders’ experience, including real-time bus arrival displays, improved lighting, enhanced security features, access to air-conditioned vestibule, free Wi-Fi inside stations, and pre-boarding fare collection. 
  
  
• What are the BRT system’s accessibility and safety features?
  The buses will offer near-level boarding for easy and quick passenger loading from the platforms. The BRT system will offer:
  • All-door boarding, allowing passengers to enter or exit the bus through any door, which speeds up boarding process
  • 24-hour security
  • Surveillance cameras
  • Air-conditioned waiting area
  • Improved pedestrian crossings
  • On-board storage will be available inside the bus. Cyclists also have the option of securing their bikes at the BRT station.
    
    
• What is the new BRT travel schedule?
  The BRT schedule will be established prior to opening. 
  
  
• Will the new BRT system increase fares?
  Fares will be set prior to opening.
  
  
• How can riders purchase their fares?
  Fares can be purchased at the stations, before boarding. This will allow for quicker on and off movements and reduce overall boarding time. EASY Card and the use of credit cards will be acceptable forms of payment. 
  
  
• How can the public provide feedback?
  Public feedback during this process is important. Feel free to report concerns by sending an email to: [email protected].