Is Light Rail or BRT the Future of US Public Transportation?

The ongoing discourse around the future of public transportation in the United States is heavily influenced by the COVID-19 pandemic. During this critical period, public transportation systems such as buses, trains, and subways faced significant scrutiny due to their role in facilitating the spread of airborne diseases like COVID-19. As a result, many policymakers and citizens are reconsidering the value and necessity of these systems.

However, is it accurate to say that future public transportation projects in the US will be dominated by either light rail or Bus Rapid Transit (BRT)? This article explores various transportation options and evaluates whether light rail or BRT are indeed the primary future projects, or if other alternatives also hold significant potential.

The Role of Public Transportation in a Pandemic

During the COVID-19 pandemic, public transportation systems, such as buses, trains, and subways, continued to operate, providing essential services to the community. Yet, these systems presented a significant risk, acting as filthy Petri dishes where airborne diseases could easily spread. Many argued that it would be more prudent to allocate tax dollars towards improving free parking and expanding freeway infrastructure, rather than continuing to support what they perceived as a parasitic public transit system.

Is All Public Transportation Expansion Inevitably Light Rail or BRT?

Whether future public transportation projects will solely focus on light rail or BRT systems depends largely on the interpretation of what constitutes a “project”. If the term implies the establishment or expansion of typical bus services in areas lacking or underserved by these routes, the answer may be no. Minimal infrastructure buildouts, primarily involving the installation of bus stops and shelters, could indeed address current gaps in service. This type of project can often be implemented with relatively minimal costs, making it a viable option.

On the other hand, if “projects” are defined as those requiring substantial infrastructure investment, such as dedicated routes, grade separations, and other physical structures, alternative options remain. These include:

Heavy Rail and Metro/Regional Rail

Heavy rail systems, including subways and elevated sections, are an important consideration. While many heavy rail systems operate in city centers, expanding or enhancing such systems outside these areas can provide significant benefits. Metro/Regional rail projects, which aim to increase the speed and frequency of intercity routes using Amtrak and state-funded initiatives, also present an opportunity for substantial improvements. For example, the current Amtrak Capital Corridor in California between San Jose and Sacramento may see improvements such as electrification, additional tracks, and rerouting to increase speed and frequency, enhancing service for both longer and shorter trips.

Does Light Rail or BRT Dominate Future Projects?

In evaluating whether light rail or BRT will dominate future projects, we must consider the diverse needs and specific contexts of different regions. Simply put, light rail and BRT may play a significant role in certain areas, but other transportation options should not be dismissed. Factors such as existing infrastructure, traffic volumes, and local development plans all play crucial roles in determining which projects will be prioritized.

Conclusion

The future of public transportation in the United States is complex and multifaceted. While light rail and BRT may be important components, they should not be seen as the exclusive focus. Other options such as heavy rail, metro, and regional rail offer substantial benefits and should be considered alongside these systems. As we move forward, a balanced and diverse approach to public transportation will be essential to meet the evolving needs of communities nationwide.

Further Reading

For more information on public transportation projects and their future, explore related research and articles on the topic. This article provides a foundation for understanding the current debate and potential future directions for public transportation in the United States.