The Pulse Bus Rapid Transit
Richmond
Award of Merit

Owner: Virginia Dept. of Transportation
General Contractor: Lane Construction Corp.
Lead Design Firm: STV
Geotechnical Engineer: GeoConcepts Engineering Inc.
Utility Infrastructure Mapping: InfraMap
Utilities and Landscaping Consultant: Timmons Group
Right-of-Way Consultant: KDR Real Estate Services
Surveys: H&B Surveying & Mapping
Public Involvement Consultant: Seventh Point Transportation

Part of an overall revitalization effort in downtown Richmond, the $47-million bus rapid transit system delivered a 7.6-mile-long, high-density corridor that provides an attractive and convenient transportation option for residents and commuters. To integrate the Pulse’s 14 median and curbside stations into the corridor, the team installed an advanced traffic signal priority system. It continually analyzes and adjusts signal timing to match traffic flow and vehicle arrivals, helping to expedite the flow of buses through signal-controlled intersections, the team says.

During construction, a maintenance-of-traffic plan tailored to each work package safely accommodated vehicles and pedestrians while preserving access to adjacent businesses and maintaining traffic flow. New and updated crossings at two busy freight corridors were closely coordinated with the railroads to limit construction-related disruptions to rail traffic, the team says. Completed on budget and on schedule in 17 months, the Pulse is now an integral part of Richmond’s street network, the team says. The stations have a modern, uniform design, elevated platforms and distinctive architectural features—such as brick finishes and custom cedar ceilings that echo the corridor’s historic architecture. Rainfall from the canopies is channeled to adjacent planting beds. Each station has a specially glazed backscreen displaying a map of the whole corridor as well as a scannable QR code that links to information about the surrounding area.

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