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What is Bus Rapid Transit (BRT)?
Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) is an enhanced public transportation service that uses dedicated bus lanes, signal priority, and upgraded stations to offer faster, more reliable, and more frequent service than a traditional bus route. BRT makes travel across Raleigh easier, safer, and more convenient.
Learn more about our Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) Projects!
Why is Wake County investing in BRT?
Raleigh and Wake County are growing rapidly—and so is the need for efficient, sustainable mobility. BRT supports that growth by:
- Reducing traffic congestion
- Expanding access to jobs, schools, and services
- Improving safety and reliability
- Offering more transportation options for everyone, including those who do not drive
In 2016, Wake County voters approved a half-cent sales tax to fund the Wake Transit Plan, which expands and improves public transit countywide.
How does BRT fit into Raleigh’s existing transportation network?
BRT will complement existing GoRaleigh bus routes, bike facilities, and sidewalks. Riders will be able to:
- Transfer easily between BRT and local bus routes
- Walk or bike to stations with improved sidewalks and trails
- Use park-and-ride lots where available
Together, these features support the four “Big Moves” of the Wake Transit Plan: connecting the region, connecting communities, enhancing access, and making transit more reliable.
What is the Wake Transit Plan, and how does it relate to BRT?
The Wake Transit Plan is a voter-approved program that funds major transit improvements across Wake County. BRT is one of its cornerstone projects, delivering fast, high-capacity service along key corridors linking downtown Raleigh to surrounding communities.
Where are the BRT corridors?
The Wake BRT network, led by the City of Raleigh, includes four corridors:
- New Bern Avenue (Under construction)
- Western Corridor (In design)
- Southern Corridor (In design)
- Northern Corridor (In planning)
Each line connects downtown Raleigh with major destination areas, improving mobility across the city.
Southern Corridor FAQs
Where is the Southern Corridor located?
The Southern Corridor will extend from downtown Raleigh to Garner, serving communities and destinations along South Wilmington Street and Fayetteville Road.
Maps and updates are available on the Wake BRT: Southern Design and Construction page.
Will the project require new right-of-way or affect private property?
Most improvements will occur within the existing public right-of-way. In limited cases where small portions of property are needed for sidewalks, stations, or safety improvements, the City will contact property owners directly to discuss next steps.
Learn more about property impacts and resources!
What will BRT stations look like?
BRT stations will feature modern, accessible designs with:
- Shelters, lighting, and seating
- Real-time arrival displays
- Level boarding platforms for faster, easier access
- Ticket vending machines and touchscreen displays
- Opportunities for integrated public art
Final station designs will be shared on the project website as they are completed.
Will there be new sidewalks, bike lanes, or trail connections?
Yes. The Southern Corridor will improve pedestrian and bicycle access by:
- Filling sidewalk gaps where feasible
- Widening sidewalks or creating shared-use paths in key areas
- Enhancing trail shoulders and bike facilities for safe, multimodal travel
These improvements are being coordinated with City staff to ensure consistent, accessible connections to BRT stations.
What is the project timeline?
| Phase | Key Activities | Target Year |
| Design | Final design and stakeholder coordination | Through 2026 |
| Construction | Begin corridor and station construction | 2028* |
| Service Launch | BRT service begins | 2028–2029* |
*Timing depends on federal funding and final design milestones.
How can I get involved or provide feedback?
Residents can share feedback through:
- Open houses and community meetings
- Online surveys and comment forms
- Project updates available in English and Spanish
Accessibility and translation services are available upon request.
Where can I find ongoing updates?
All maps, designs, meeting materials, and project news are posted on the Wake BRT: Southern Design and Construction page.
