A bus approaching an intersection can automatically trigger the signal to remain green for 10 extra seconds. At important intersections, the green light can be extended in only every other cycle. To prevent bus drivers from speeding up to extend the green lights, there are no visual indicators in the buses to tell drivers when the system is being activated. Bus Stops Metro Rapid bus stops are on the far corners of intersections, after traffic lights. Local stops are on the near corner, so the stops are less crowded, making it easier to board and unload passengers.
Electronic displays show waiting passengers when the next bus is arriving.
A satellite operations control center was designed and engineered specifically for the Metro Rapid program. A graphic display of bus operations is provided for service management. The objective of the schedules is to minimize passenger travel times while reducing overcrowding and improving service reliability. Metro Rapid service will use low-floor buses exclusively to provide level boarding and alighting. Therefore, improvements in transit speed, reliability, and on-time performance must focus on the delay caused at bus stops and traffic signals.