Bus Rapid Transit

Terracon needs an additional month to gather underground data. Expect temporary lane and sidewalk closures to continue during work hours (9:00am to 4:00pm).

Continue reading for full details > https://engage.chapelhillnc.gov/nsbrt/news_feed/traffic-alert-lane-and-sidewalk-closures-along-martin-luther-king-jr-blvd-and-s-columbia-st-2

Bus Rapid Transit is underway in Chapel Hill. We've designed an infographic to help you understand the big picture of the project. It shows where we are right now, and the important steps we need to take to get the service up and running. We will keep you informed every step of the way.

[Download]Major Project Milestones

2025: Design and Planning

• Federal Readiness Reviews: We’re working closely with federal agencies to make sure Chapel Hill’s Bus Rapid Transit meets all necessary standards.

• Project Agreements & Permit Approvals: We’re finalizing agreements and obtaining the required permits.

• Final Design & Engineering: Our team is finalizing the detailed design and engineering plans. These plans will include specific details about the route, stations, and any potential impacts on your property.

• Federal Grant Agreements: We’re submitting the final request for federal funding. This funding is essential to support construction and implementation.

2026: Pre-Construction

• Right of Ways: We’ll begin securing the necessary land and rights. If your property is affected, we’ll reach out to discuss the process.

• Relocate Utilities: We'll move existing utilities, such as water, gas, and electricity lines, to prepare for construction.

• Federal Grant Agreements: Once the federal grant is approved, we’ll finalize the agreement to secure ‌funding, allowing us to continue with the next steps.

• Construction Bids & Contracts: We’ll issue bids and award contracts to construction companies.

2027: Construction

• Construction Begins: We’ll provide regular updates about the construction schedule, traffic changes, and any other relevant details to help you plan and minimize disruption.

2029: Launch Service

• Service Testing: We'll test traffic signal priority, bus-only lanes, 60’ articulated busses, and station platforms.
• Launch: Rapid Transit routes officially open.

We’re dedicated to being transparent and will keep you updated throughout the entire process. Your input is valuable to us.

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Starting this week in Chapel Hill, drivers and pedestrians should be aware of lane and sidewalk closures as part of the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) project. This may cause potential disruptions.

What to Expect

Terracon, an engineering firm, is gathering underground data. Also known as soil borings, this information is used for designing roadways, retaining walls, and bus stop platforms.

• When: The work is expected to take 2 to 3 weeks, depending on the weather, and will occur daily from 9:00am to 4:00pm.

• Where: Along both sides of the road, starting from the intersection of Market Street and S. Columbia Street (US 15-501) in Southern Village and extending north to Dixie Lane at Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.

Closures and traffic impact

Lane and sidewalk closures will be in effect during work hours, causing potential disruptions. At any given time, the lane closure is expected to stretch about 400 to 500 feet.

• Work Direction: The schedule is flexible due to utility locating clearance. This week, the plan is to start near Highway 501 (Southern Village Club area) and move toward M.L.K. Jr. Blvd. (near Bolin Creek Trail).

Your patience and cooperation as we conduct this essential work is greatly appreciated. We're committed to making sure the project runs smoothly.

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On Wednesday, June 11, Chapel Hill Transit staff will update Town Council on a North-South Bus Rapid Transit (NSBRT) project milestone — the completion of 60% design. Staff will also discuss next steps in the project. You can learn more about the update in the Town Council meeting agenda here.