Metro Express Service

FAQ

• What is Bus Rapid Transit (BRT)?

  Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) is a high-quality bus-based transit system delivering a rail-like experience that is fast and efficient, which includes dedicated lanes, traffic signal preemption and priority, off-board fare collection, elevated platforms with
  level boarding and enhanced stations.
  
  With a length of 20 miles, the South Dade Transit-Way, set to open in 2025, will be the longest battery electric bus rapid transit system in the nation on a dedicated corridor with level boarding, gate arms, and state-of-the-art stations. The TransitWay connects communities from Dadeland South Metrorail Station to SW 344 Street Park & Ride Transit Terminal in Homestead, connecting communities to job centers, schools, parks, other transit modes, and shopping centers.

• What is the difference between the existing local service and the new BRT system?

  The new BRT service will implement the use of preemption and priority signaling, which gives BRT vehicles quick and safe access across intersections, improving travel times. BRT buses will 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?

  TBRT all-electric vehicles will offer safe, dependable service along the South Corridor, connecting communities to job centers, schools, parks, other transit modes, and retail areas.
  
  With this new service, the community will have an express north-south travel option.

• 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, water fountains, and pre-boarding fare collection.

• What is the new BRT travel schedule?

  The final BRT schedule will be established prior to the opening. Currently, service frequency is expected to be 7.5 minutes during peak hours/peak direction, 15 minutes off peak, and 30 minutes on weekends.

• Will the new BRT system increase fares?

  No. Fares remain the same.

• How can riders purchase their fares?

  Fares can be purchased at the BRT 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.

• 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 timing and safety equipment, such as warning lights and gate arms.
  
  Some drivers may also experience signal disruptions as signal timing configurations are being 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.

• What can drivers expect when the BRT is operational?

  Northbound and southbound US-1 routes will have longer green lights. Minor delays may occur for cross street traffic at intersections due to signal preemption for BRT dedicated lanes.
  
  Gate arms will descend as physical barriers with visual/audible signals 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 the BRT system’s accessibility and safety features?

  The buses will offer 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 bike storage will be available inside the bus. Cyclists also have the option of securing their bikes at the BRT station.

• 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 this 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.
  
  How can the public provide feedback?
  Public feedback during this process is important. You can also report concerns by sending an email to [email protected].

• How can the public provide feedback?

  Public feedback during this process is important. You can also report concerns by sending an email to [email protected].