Oakland City Council endorses BRT

Photo: Flickr user RideACT

A week after the its Public Works Committee approved the idea, the Oakland City Council voted on April 20 to support AC Transit’s proposed Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) that would bring high speed bus service to the area.

"Our local leaders in Oakland have really stepped up to support this innovative and cost-effective project, which is now one step closer to benefiting the region." Rocky Fernandez AC Transit President

“This has been an exciting week for Bus Rapid Transit, which we believe will speed up travel times, stimulate local jobs, and help the environment by reducing pollution and the need to drive,” said Rocky Fernandez, President of the AC Transit Board of Directors. “Our local leaders in Oakland have really stepped up to support this innovative and cost-effective project, which is now one step closer to benefiting the region.”

The Oakland portion of the BRT route would be the longest and most highly-traveled of the 17-mile stretch from San Leandro, through Oakland and ending in Berkeley. The cities of Berkeley and San Leandro are expected to rule on their portion of the project soon.

"Last night’s vote at the Oakland City Council Meeting shows that AC Transit has effectively listened to the community and come up with a plan that really works for Oakland," said Clarence Johnson, spokesman for AC Transit. "Oakland’s community leaders understand that BRT is good for local traffic concerns, businesses and the environment."

BRT could be up and running as soon as 2013, and fully implemented in 2015.