GRTC plans Richmond’s next rapid transit line

GRTC is planning its next big expansion: a second bus rapid transit line.

Why is this important: The new line would offer north-south rapid transit options for the first time.

• It would complement the region’s first and only BRT line, the Pulse, which opened in 2018 and travels east to west from Rocketts Landing to Willow Lawn.

What is happening: The GRTC commissioned a $700,000 study late last month to assess potential routes for the new service.

• North of downtown, the new line would follow Chamberlayne Avenue and Highway 1 to Virginia Center Commons, via GRTC.
• But south of the city center the options are less obvious, with Richmond Highway, Hull Street and Midlothian Turnpike all options with different potential benefits.

And after: This is a long-term project, and late 2028 is the start of any new service, said GRTC spokesman Mike Frontiero.

• However, he said that could change if new sources of funding become available.

Meanwhile, The GRTC is working to expand peak-hour capacity on the Pulse, with an order for high-passenger buses (the type with an accordion in the middle) expected to enter service in the next two to three years, said Frontier.

• Longer buses will require the addition of longer platforms at all Pulse stations.