CDTA BusPlus Red Line
A visual tour of innovation and connectivity.
CDTA Red Line Projects – Click on a ■ to learn more about a project.
Background
Introduced in 2011, the Red Line is CDTA's first BRT line. Since then, the Red Line has become an integral part of the Capital Region's transit network, with CDTA launching two more connecting BRT services, the Blue and Purple Lines. CDTA is continuously developing roadways, intersections, and stations to further improve mobility for riders in the Capital District, including the Red Line. CDTA's Red Line Refresh project is working to revitalize the line through a series of station improvements and infrastructure upgrades.
Partners
CDTA thanks its municipal and governmental partners for supporting the BusPlus Red Line project.
Project Timeline
July 2022
Red Line Refresh begins: BRT station upgrades and improvements
April 2023
Gateway Mobility Hub begins: Expanded station, park and mobility improvements
Sept 2023
Construction ends on both the Red Line Refresh and the Gateway Mobility Hub
Projects
01 / 06
1
Multi-Modal Accessibility
The Gateway Mobility Hub is the Capital Region's first multi-modal transit center, providing access to ten different CDTA routes.
The BusPlus Red Line, the DRIVE electric car sharing service, the CDPHP Cycle! bike sharing program, and the SCOOT electric scooter program all serve the Gateway Mobility Hub. The Mobility Hub provides a convenient and unified connection point for these services, thereby improving accessibility for customers and enhancing the development of both CDTA and the Capital Region. Transportation options offered at the Mobility Hub also encourage sustainable or non-motorized mobility alternatives, which not only expands mode choice for customers but also reflects CDTA's commitment to sustainability.
2
Buses, Trains, and Cars – Oh My!
The BusPlus Red Line also serves the Schenectady train station, one of the busiest Amtrak stations in the state. This connection allows users to access the station without having to pay for private vehicles, parking, or ride services. This makes the station more accessible to neighboring cities and towns, as the line runs through Albany and Colonie.
3
New and Improved Stations
Stations along the BusPlus Red Line have been refreshed and modernized to address pedestrian safety issues and match the new amenities seen on the Blue Line and the Purple Line.
CDTA has secured a Safe Streets for All grant to improve sidewalks, crosswalks, and ramps, and create safer conditions for pedestrians and customers throughout the corridor. The eighteen stations along the BusPlus Red Line also feature heated sidewalks with snowmelt pads, LED lights, and USB chargers to keep users comfortable while they wait. These assets are powered by new rooftop solar panels, a clean energy source that the CDTA has introduced to the region.
4
Quicker Trips and Fewer Red Lights
Upgrades to the BusPlus BRT Lines include the addition of Transit Signal Priority (TSP) and bus only queue jump lanes .Traffic signals equipped with TSP allow buses to catch green lights faster by detecting when they approach intersections. New bus-only queue jump lanes also allow buses to pass through intersections quickly, reducing traffic congestion and creating a more efficient ride.
The first phase of improvement covers the five BusPlus stations in Schenectady from Veeder/Nott to Niskayuna and uses data collection, traffic analysis, and public engagement efforts to inform roadway and intersection improvements. The collected data is used to accurately enhance station locations and adjacent intersections for transit riders, pedestrians, and other travelers throughout the corridor.
5
Innovative Design
Stations have also installed new pylons with Red BusPlus branding to improve wayfinding around the transit system. The pylons not only serve as station markers, but also provide a place to store vital electrical equipment that effortlessly powers the station using solar energy. These amenities are also being installed at stations along the other BRT lines to provide overall enhanced bus service to the region.
6
Downtown Service
The BusPlus Red Line's route is unique because it connects users to both popular regional locations and the BusPlus Purple Line. Making stops at business hubs such as SUNY Plaza , the Red Line allows users to travel to work faster and more conveniently. SUNY Plaza station is also served by the BusPlus Purple Line, allowing riders to seamlessly transition routes if needed.