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RTA hosts open house to discuss W25th Rapid Bus Lane project
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Published in Automotive and Transportation on Sunday, August 24th 2025 at 17:44 GMT by 19 Action News🞛 This publication is a summary or evaluation of another publication 🞛 This publication contains editorial commentary or bias from the source
RTA Announces Open‑House Event to Discuss West‑25th Rapid Bus‑Lane Project
August 13, 2025 – Cleveland, OH – The Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority (RTA) is inviting residents, businesses and community leaders to an open‑house session on Monday, August 13, to learn about the proposed West‑25th Rapid Bus‑Lane project. The event, hosted at RTA’s downtown office, is part of the authority’s effort to streamline bus service on the city’s west side, enhance reliability for commuters, and spur economic development along one of Cleveland’s busiest corridors.
Why a Rapid Bus‑Lane on West‑25th?
West‑25th Street has long been a key artery that connects the downtown core to the West Side neighborhoods and industrial districts. For decades, local bus routes that run along the corridor have suffered from unpredictable travel times due to mixed traffic, frequent congestion, and signal delays. The RTA’s preliminary study, published last month, found that a dedicated rapid bus lane could cut travel time by up to 30 percent and increase rider capacity by 40 percent.
The proposed lane would be a two‑lane, one‑way rapid bus corridor running from East 9th Street—just north of the downtown transit hub—to West 25th Street’s intersection with Lakeshore Road. The lane would be protected from other vehicles by physical barriers and would operate with signal priority at all intersections. Buses would use the lane for express service between downtown and the West Side’s key employment centers, with additional “all‑stop” service on the corridor’s ends.
Project Scope and Funding
According to the RTA’s project plan, the West‑25th Rapid Bus‑Lane will cost roughly $18 million. The authority estimates that the cost will be covered through a combination of federal TIGER‑II grants, state transportation funds, and a modest local sales‑tax revenue allocation earmarked for public transit improvements. In addition, the RTA is exploring partnership opportunities with the City of Cleveland and private developers in the area to co‑fund elements such as station amenities and aesthetic enhancements.
The project will also be integrated into Cleveland’s “Vision 2030” transportation plan, a city‑wide initiative aimed at reducing traffic congestion, improving air quality, and expanding multimodal mobility options. The Vision 2030 plan identifies the West‑25th corridor as a high‑priority route for rapid bus and transit‑signal priority improvements.
What the Open‑House Will Cover
During the open‑house session, RTA officials will present a visual walkthrough of the proposed lane design, explain the expected impacts on bus reliability, and outline the construction timeline. Key topics include:
Construction Schedule – The RTA expects construction to begin in early 2026, with the project slated for completion by late 2028. The authority will provide a phased construction plan designed to minimize disruptions to existing traffic and pedestrian activity.
Bus Service Changes – The RTA will outline how the rapid bus lane will be incorporated into existing routes, with a focus on Routes 6, 18, and 44. Riders can expect to see a new “Rapid” designation on the affected buses, indicating faster, fewer‑stop service.
Community Feedback Mechanisms – Attendees will have the opportunity to ask questions, submit written comments, and participate in breakout sessions. The RTA will also hold a follow‑up virtual town‑hall for residents who cannot attend in person.
Station Enhancements – The project will include upgraded bus stops along the corridor, featuring new shelters, real‑time arrival displays, and improved lighting. RTA is also considering a small “park‑and‑ride” lot adjacent to the intersection of West‑25th and Lakeshore to encourage out‑of‑town riders to use the rapid bus service.
Voices From the Community
Several local organizations have expressed enthusiasm about the project. “The West‑25th corridor is a lifeline for many of our residents,” said Maria Alvarez, director of the West Side Community Coalition. “A dedicated bus lane will not only reduce commute times but also provide a safer, more reliable transit option for those who rely on public transportation to get to work, school and medical appointments.”
Business owners along the corridor echoed similar sentiments. “Traffic congestion is a major problem for our customers and employees,” said James Lee, owner of a retail storefront at West‑25th and Lakeshore. “A rapid bus lane will help keep the area busy and attract more foot traffic, especially during peak hours.”
Getting Involved
The RTA’s open‑house event is scheduled for Monday, August 13, from 10 am to 12 pm, and will take place at the RTA Headquarters (350 West 9th Street). RTA officials will be available on a first‑come, first‑served basis to answer questions. Those who cannot attend in person can view a live stream of the event on the RTA’s website (www.rta.org/rapidbuslane) and can submit written comments through an online form.
RTA’s Chief Operating Officer, Emily Carter, emphasized the authority’s commitment to community engagement. “We believe that meaningful transportation solutions can only be built with the input of the people they serve,” Carter said. “This open‑house is the first step in a collaborative process that will shape the future of public transit in Cleveland.”
Looking Ahead
The West‑25th Rapid Bus‑Lane project represents a significant step toward Cleveland’s broader goal of creating a more efficient, environmentally friendly transportation network. If approved, the project will not only improve bus reliability on one of the city’s busiest corridors but also serve as a model for future rapid bus‑lane initiatives across the region.
For more detailed information about the project scope, design drawings, and the RTA’s procurement process, visitors can download the full project proposal PDF from the RTA website (www.rta.org/rapidbuslane/projectplan.pdf). The document also includes a breakdown of projected ridership increases, economic impact studies, and a list of potential construction partners.
Residents and stakeholders are encouraged to attend the open‑house session and help shape the future of Cleveland’s public transit. Whether you’re a daily commuter, a small business owner, or simply curious about how the city’s transit infrastructure is evolving, the RTA’s open‑house offers a valuable opportunity to learn, engage, and make your voice heard.
Read the Full 19 Action News Article at:
[ https://www.cleveland19.com/2025/08/13/rta-hosts-open-house-discuss-w25th-rapid-bus-lane-project/ ]
