Planning for BRT in San Antonio began in September 2002 and gained momentum over the following years through a series of studies by VIA and the San Antonio-Bexar County Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO). Ultimately Fredericksburg Road from downtown to the South Texas Medical Center was identified as a preferred alternative corridor for BRT. In September 2006, VIA moved forward with the BRT alternative, establishing a long-term vision and determining a funding strategy to guide future implementation efforts.

VIA’s vision is that BRT will attract more riders of choice by providing a desirable, enhanced, and efficient system that is consistently reliable and that significantly decreases travel times. VIA will develop a high-volume transit corridor system distinguished by unique advanced-design vehicles operating in a renewed street environment that favors BRT operation and includes special stops with passenger amenities. The BRT network will be fully integrated with the regional transportation system, and it will lead the way in strengthening public transportation service and use. The BRT network will serve as a catalyst for economic development and efficient land use.

Alternatives Analysis (2004-2005)

In 2005, at VIA’s behest, the Metropolitan Planning Organization (the transportation agency responsible for regional planning and programming), completed the Northwest Corridor Alternatives Analysis, or NWAA. This study built upon the work initiated by VIA’s Comprehensive Service Plan, or CSP, which led to the complete restructuring of VIA’s transit network. The CSP identified a need for transit alternatives along the Fredericksburg Road corridor, and the NWAA studied a broad range of transit options. The NWAA concluded that BRT is the locally preferred alternative for transit improvements along Fredericksburg Road. Independent consultants Lockwood, Andrews and Newman (LAN) were hired to conduct an evaluation. It was determined that, for Fredericksburg Road, BRT was the Locally Preferred Alternative (LPA).

Preliminary Engineering and Environmental Assessment (Summer 2008-Summer 2010)

VIA is currently in the Preliminary Engineering (PE) and Environmental Assessment (EA) process. During the PE process, VIA will more clearly define the BRT project and calculate preliminary costs for all its components. The preparation of an Environmental Assessment (EA) is required by the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) of 1969 in order for a project to receive federal funding. The environmental review process identifies all environmental, transportation, cultural, and social impacts of the proposed project. Public involvement is an important part of the environmental process. Learn more about this process.

Final Design (Spring 2010 – Winter 2010)

Final design is the next phase of project development, and includes the preparation of final construction plans and construction management plans for the BRT terminals, stations, infrastructure detailed specifications, construction cost estimates, and bid documents. It will also include other project components, e.g., initiation of any required right-of-way acquisition, utility relocation and integration of public art.

Construction (Spring 2011 – 2012)

During this phase, the BRT terminals, stations, and infrastructure will be constructed. Bid opportunities for contractors will be posted, and participation from all vendors, including disadvantaged, minority, woman-owned, and small business enterprises, is encouraged. Procurement opportunities are updated on this BRT website.

Service Inception (2012)

Once construction is complete and testing is finished, VIA will initiate BRT service along Fredericksburg Road.