Ashland Bus Rapid Transit
| Company type | Public transit project |
|---|---|
| Industry | Public transportation |
| Founded | 2012 |
| Headquarters | Chicago , United States |
Area served | Ashland Avenue corridor, Chicago |
| Products | Bus rapid transit service |
| Website | www |
The Ashland Bus Rapid Transit represents a proposed bus rapid transit line in Chicago, extending roughly 17 miles along Ashland Avenue from Irving Park Road down to 95th Street. This corridor will serve important locations including the Illinois Medical District, University of Illinois at Chicago, Malcolm X College, and the United Center, while providing connections to seven CTA rail stations.
Designed to run within dedicated center lanes featuring median boarding platforms, the service will utilize elements such as transit signal priority and fare prepayment systems. According to CTA estimates, buses on this route could achieve speeds up to 83% faster compared to existing local bus services.
History
Between 2012 and 2013, planning efforts and community outreach took place, culminating in an Environmental Assessment published in November 2013 that identified no major environmental concerns.
The initiative encountered resistance due to worries about narrowing automobile lanes and restrictions on left turns. In response, CTA explored options to reinstate certain left-turn movements; however, critics continued to express apprehension regarding lane reductions and the financial implications of the project. Opposition from drivers, particularly groups like the Fulton Market Association, eventually hindered advancement.
Implementation is intended to occur in three stages, starting with a 5.5-mile section stretching from Cortland Street to 31st Street.