SEPTA announced it is partnering with the city of Philadelphia and PennDOT to install red paint on the Market Street bus-only lanes from 20th to 15th Streets (eastbound) and Juniper to 6th Streets (both directions) in Center City, according to the agency's news release.

This initiative will add approximately 1.75 miles of red bus lanes to SEPTA’s network. The project will directly benefit more than 6,600 daily weekday riders who use SEPTA’s buses on this stretch of Market Street by discouraging drivers from using the bus lanes.

“We are grateful to partner with the City and PennDOT on this historic investment in SEPTA’s bus infrastructure,” said Leslie S. Richards, SEPTA GM/CEO. “Reducing the number of cars driving and parking in the bus lanes should improve the reliability of our bus service.”

Market Street buses serve neighborhoods across Philadelphia and the region.

SEPTA, the City, and PennDOT will split the cost of materials, which is expected to be approximately $785,000. The red bus lanes are scheduled to be installed on Market Street later this month.

“Bus-only lanes are proven to enhance bus service, prioritize transit, and reduce traffic congestion in city streets,” said Mayor Jim Kenney. “We’re grateful to partner with SEPTA and PennDOT in this infrastructure investment. Transit is an affordable and energy-efficient method of transportation and ensuring all residents have access to reliable bus service is a top priority of our administration.”

Last June, the bus lane on Chestnut Street between Broad and 2nd Streets was painted red, and as a result, SEPTA reported a 5% reduction in trip times. According to the National Association of City Transportation Officials (NACTO), the implementation of red or terra-cotta-colored pavement can reduce vehicle incursions in bus lanes by 30 to 50%.