CDTA BusPlus Blue Line
A visual tour of innovation and connectivity.
Background
CDTA Blue Line Projects – Click on a ■ to learn more about a project.
CDTA's Blue Line, first launched in November 2020, provides connections across the region, from Downtown Albany to Troy, Cohoes, and Waterford. The CDTA BusPlus Blue Line service runs along two routes, giving customers the ability to seamlessly connect to other BRT lines. There are two primary BusPlus Blue Line routes. Route 922 – Cohoes to Delaware Station , runs from Whitehall Road & Delaware Avenue in Albany to Downtown Cohoes. The other BusPlus Blue Line route, the 923 – Waterford to Rail Trail Station , goes from Old South Pearl Street to Waterford in Albany. The Blue Line also connects to the BRT Red Line and the new Purple Line that operates on the Washington and Western Avenue Corridor.
Partners
CDTA thanks its municipal and governmental partners for supporting the BusPlus Blue Line project.
Project Timeline
2019
Construction on stations for the BusPlus Blue Line begin
November 2020
Initial launch of the BusPlus Blue Line
2021
Construction completes on stations for the BusPlus Blue Line
Projects
01 / 06
1
Clear and Modern Branding
CDTA's BusPlus branding has been updated to enhance convenience and reflect the recent improvements to the Blue Line. Updated stations and new BRT buses now match the color scheme of the Blue Line, serving as an identifying factor that allows for easier wayfinding to the stations.
Tall pylons were also installed to serve as markers for new BusPlus stations, clearly labeled with the station name and "BusPlus" on either side. The pylons also house important electrical equipment that the station amenities rely on, such as the wiring to newly installed snowmelt pads for heated sidewalks .
2
Commitment to Sustainability
CDTA consistently strives to bring sustainable public transportation to the Capital Region, and new dynamic roofing options reflect this goal.
The 4th St & Congress Station has a green roof to mitigate stormwater runoff and retain heat. The green roof features solar panels that power the station's electronics, a planted area, and a solar-powered compacting trash receptacle.
3
Convenient Park & Rides
Park & Rides are located all throughout the Capital Region, with two serving the Blue Line. Some are constructed and owned by CDTA, while others are in large shopping centers or mall parking lots. Users can park for free at the Park & Ride lots and board a CDTA bus for a convenient transition from their personal vehicles to a BRT line.
The Park and Rides often feature limited-stop express service, allowing for faster and more frequent trips throughout the region. Some also provide electrical vehicle charging stations free of charge. Specifically, the Route 378 Park & Ride has four available electric vehicle charging stations and eighty-three total available parking spaces.
4
Upgraded User Experience
The BusPlus Blue Line now features upgraded amenities for CDTA customers to enjoy. Enhanced roofs, LED lights, and heated sidewalks keep the rider comfortable and safe while they're waiting for the bus. Other station improvements include upgraded seating, trash receptacles, and lean bars.
5
Accessible Routes & Stations
The BusPlus Blue Line connects Albany to Waterford while making stops at areas of interest along the corridor. There are two BusPlus Blue Lines: one is the 922 – Cohoes to Delaware Station , and the other is the 923 – Waterford to Rail Trail Station . The Blue Line overlaps with the BRT Red Line and Purple Line, creating a network of BRT routes for riders to conveniently and easily move around the Capital Region.
6
Multi-Modal Access to Trails
The recently constructed Rail Trail Park & Ride further provides users with a network of up-to-date and sustainable multi-modal transportation options. The Rail Trail station is a unique stop along the BRT Blue Line because it allows riders to access one of the most popular multi-use trails in Albany, the Helderberg-Hudson Rail Trail . Located across from the Rail Trail trailhead, this new Park and Ride strengthens the Blue Line's multi-modal connectivity and encourages visitation by creating a safe area for riders to freely park their cars, use the Blue Line, and enjoy the trail.
For bicyclists, connections to CDTA buses have become safer through improvements to the Blue Line. The Albany Rail Trail station boasts a new bike path with bike crosswalks and signals, while the Mt. Hope station features a new bike lane that connects to the sidewalk and separates bicycles from traffic. These improvements protect cyclists and allow all kinds of riders to access stops with no inconvenience.