Bus RTS Line Set to Open Next Year

Contract Awarded for Mesa RTS Corridor

El Paso’s first bus Rapid Transit System (RTS) line could be up and running in just over a year. That’s according to a presentation given to the El Paso City Council at its April 9, 2013 meeting as part of a vote to award the contract for the project.

The Mesa Corridor route will stretch from downtown El Paso to the city’s west side.

Sun Metro’s Brio RTS system will first run along Mesa Street and stretch from the Downtown Transfer Center to the Westside Transfer Center on Remcon Circle. Twenty-two RTS stations will be located along the route.

The line will use uniquely branded 60-foot articulated buses which stop less frequently than normal bus routes. Special branded and landscaped stations will distinguish the line from regular city buses. Station amenities part of the construction include canopy lighting, raised platforms, wind and sun screens on shelters, pre-paid automatic ticket vending, benches/leaning rails, bike racks, trash cans, and wayfinding pylons.

The City has awarded the $9.8 million contract to Martinez Bros. Contractors, LLC of El Paso. Funding comes from a mix of sources which include 2011 Certificates of Obligation, federal funding, and the Texas Department of Transportation Mobility Plan.

Three additional lines are planned. Alameda Avenue should begin shortly after the Mesa route, with Dyer Street following in 2015. Montana Avenue is scheduled for completion in 2016.

Construction on the Mesa corridor route is scheduled to begin in June of this year with service beginning in July of 2014.

The City Council agenda item can be found at http://goo.gl/31k8v.