As federal grants pour into bus rapid transit (BRT) projects across the United States, Richmond’s Pulse BRT stands as a rubric for BRT done right. Since it began service, Pulse BRT surpassed expectations with more than 30,000 riders in its first week.
The high-capacity BRT network alleviates traffic as Richmond continues to grow, and local roads throughout Virginia’s capital city become increasingly congested. City officials looked for a mass transit solution to connect the most heavily populated and transit-dependent areas with its commercial centers, schools and hospitals.
The Pulse system was designed by STV under a design-build contract with Lane Construction Corporation. As the lead designer, the firm provided roadway design to create nearly 2.3 miles of dedicated bus lanes along the entire 7.6-mile route. Through its architectural and engineering services, STV established new stations and platforms, including five median stations and nine curbside stations among the total of 26 platforms.
In recognition of its excellence in design and delivery, the project was honored by the Design-Build Institute of America with an Award of Merit. It also received Engineering Excellence Awards from the Virginia and national chapters of the American Council of Engineering Companies.
7.6 miles
Pulse route
2.3 miles
designed by STV
26
platforms
