MCTS’ Bus Rapid Transit route enters final leg of construction

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The Milwaukee County Transit System (MCTS) announced Monday it entered into the final phase of construction of the East-West Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) stretching from downtown Milwaukee to the Milwaukee Regional Medical Complex in Wauwatosa.

The BRT line known as “MCTS CONNECT” will feature MCTS’ battery electric buses and will deliver high-frequency service, with 10-minute headways at peak times along the route, transit agency officials said. The new line will start service on June 4, officials added.

“Modernizing public transit through the BRT has taken nearly five years to achieve. We’re excited to introduce Milwaukee County to this enhanced travel experience. Dedicated bus lanes are proven to increase safety for not only buses and cars, but for pedestrians and cyclists, too,” MCTS President and Interim Managing Director Denise Wandke said in a statement.

The dedicated bus lanes are a collaboration between MCTS and Milwaukee County, and will keep bus schedules fast and reliable, like a train or light rail service, MCTS officials said.

The route is nine miles long and is nearly an even split between dedicated lanes and mixed traffic from downtown Milwaukee to Wauwatosa, officials noted. The bus lanes will be along the right travel lane of the eastern portion of the route, on Wisconsin Avenue from Hawley Road to 8th Street and Plankinton Avenue to Cass Street.

Crews will install lanes starting Tuesday and will continue until late May, MCTS officials said. Lanes will be designated with pavement marking and permanent signage, and access to parallel parking and driveways will remain. Drivers will be allowed to enter the bus lane for right turns and parking after they yield to buses. Motorists aren’t allowed to travel in dedicated bus lanes, but cyclists are, MCTS officials added.

In March, Gov. Tony Evers and the Wisconsin Department of Transportation announced $24 million in federal grants for transportation infrastructure, including for 18 battery electric buses for Milwaukee County.

The county transportation agency showcased its first battery electric bus, designed by NovaBus, in November of 2022. ABB manufactured the charging station installed at West Watertown Plank Road in Wauwatosa.