AC Transit’s much-anticipated East Bay Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) is coming to downtown Oakland by the end of the year. Also called “light rail on wheels,” BRT will bring the frequency, safety and reliability of light rail to riders with its fleet of five-door, hybrid-electric buses. Construction of this community project will begin soon.

Where will construction take place?

• On Broadway between 11th and 20th streets
• On 11th and 12th streets between Broadway and Lake Merritt Boulevard

When will the construction happen?

Starting soon and through the fall, from Mondays through Fridays from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. Construction may occur later, overnight and on Saturday, if needed. 

What type of work is needed?

The BRT will require heavy construction, including demolition, excavation, pipe installation, paving, traffic signals, sidewalks, curb ramps and construction of BRT stations.

How long will construction take?

Construction of the BRT in downtown Oakland will take approximately three months to complete.  As with all construction, field conditions and weather may affect schedules and construction locations.  In order to complete this work as quickly as possible, and to minimize disruption to businesses and residents, some weekend and nighttime work may occur.

What routes will the BRT serve?

The service will run primarily along International Boulevard between downtown Oakland and the San Leandro BART Station.  BRT’s will offer train-like boarding along this 9.5-mile route, arriving every seven minutes during peak times.

What features are planned?

• BRT stations will feature improved lighting, real-time arrival information, and artistic enhancements.
• New wheelchair-accessible curb ramps will be installed, making street-crossing easier and safer for the visually impaired and those using mobility devices.
• High-visibility crosswalks will be created, and traffic signals upgraded, to make streets safer for drivers, cyclists and pedestrians.
• Finally, 11th and 12th streets will be repaved for a smoother ride to downtown businesses and entertainment.

How can I learn more?

Visit brt.actransit.org to subscribe to the BRT newsletter and follow the project on social media. For questions, contact Geoffrey Johnson, community construction relations manager, at (510) 681-3962 or brtgjohnson@actransit.org. You can also visit AC Transit’s BRT Information Center in person at 3322A International Boulevard, or call the BRT hotline at (510) 891-5478.

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