Navigating Madison’s New Bus-Only Lanes

As the city prepares for the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system to launch on September 22, the Madison Department of Transportation wants to make sure drivers understand how to navigate new dedicated bus lanes. Indicated by segments of red pavement, “BUS ONLY” lane markings, lane striping, and signage these dedicated lanes will not only improve reliability for buses but will contribute to smoother traffic flow and improve safety for all users of our streets.

To help residents and drivers understand how to navigate these new lanes, we’ve released a short, informational video that provides clear and concise instructions on how to safely interact with the bus-only lanes. 

"Bus-only lanes separate buses from other vehicles in traffic," said Yang Tao, Director of Traffic Engineering. “By dedicating separate spaces for buses and for general traffic, we’re not only improving travel times for the transit system, but we’re improving safety by reducing conflicts between buses and other vehicles—largely eliminating the need for drivers to navigate around buses as they slow down, stop, and accelerate to drop off and pick up passengers along transit routes.” 

As the video highlights, only buses, emergency vehicles, and—in some locations—bicycles should continuously use bus lanes. Where there are white dashed lines, drivers can cross into or through a bus lane to make a turn. As construction of the BRT system is completed and service launches on September 22, drivers should follow lane markings and signage along the BRT route.

Enforcement of bus-only lanes will focus on education and safety as we all learn how to adapt to these changes. 

“One of our mottos for Vision Zero is: ‘safety starts with all of us’ and that couldn’t be truer as we embark on the transformative launch of BRT,” said Renee Callaway, Assistant Director of Traffic Engineering and a lead on Madison’s Vision Zero effort. “This fall, we are reminding drivers to be alert for pedestrians near transit stations, remove distractions, and slow down.” 

Vision Zero is a nation-wide movement to eliminate traffic deaths and severe injuries on all roadways. Learn more about Madison’s Vision Zero strategy.

“This BRT system will accommodate projected increases in travel demand and population growth, while alleviating congestion through the isthmus, improving transportation equity, and reducing emissions to improve public health,” stated Justin Stuehrenberg, General Manager of Metro Transit. “Dedicated bus lanes are a critical element in realizing these benefits. We are excited to partner with departments and organizations throughout the city to ensure the safe rollout of the new service.” 

We encourage all residents to watch the video and familiarize themselves with the changes before they take effect on September 22. For more information about the new service, visit Metro Transit’s BRT website.