Va.'s GRTC Pulse rapid transit service to open on time, on budget

Richmond, Va.’s GRTC Transit’s Pulse launch will be completed on budget and on time on June 24.

GRTC Pulse is a modern, high quality, high-capacity rapid transit system that serves a 7.6-mile route along Broad Street and Main Street, from Rocketts Landing in Richmond to Willow Lawn in Henrico County. GRTC Pulse is jointly sponsored by Bon Secours Richmond Health System and VCU Health System. The Pulse links the public to many exciting destinations, businesses, services, and restaurants.

“We are excited to see this project connect residents, workers and visitors in our city,” says Mayor Levar Stoney. “One quarter of the city’s population and two thirds of all jobs in Richmond are within a half-mile of the Pulse. This new service, when integrated with our new Richmond Transit Network Plan, can become the transit heartbeat of our thriving city.”

Prior to opening to the public, Lane Construction will continue with some remaining work at the stations, such as landscaping; lights; totem signage; station glass; station ceilings; and more. Some roadway work is expected to continue, including forming pedestrian curb ramps, as well as sidewalk repairs.

“Our team is excited to welcome the public aboard on June 24 to experience a world-class bus rapid transit service,” said GRTC CEO David Green. “GRTC is committed to providing clean, safe, and reliable transportation; to that end, we ask for the public’s attention to new travel patterns. This increased awareness is essential for the safety for all users of the roadway.”

The same day the Pulse service launches, significant transit improvements across Richmond will also take effect for GRTC riders. The City of Richmond’s new network with all new routes, numbers, and increased frequencies will also launch. GRTC has teamed up with the City of Richmond to rework its transit system through the Richmond Transit Network Plan — and the result will mean faster, more consistent service throughout the day, along with easier connections. Riders can also expect very similar service on weekdays and Saturdays with several new high-frequency bus routes north-south and east-west. These new city routes make it even easier to connect with the Pulse and reach destinations faster.