STEAMBOAT SPRINGS, COLORADO-June 26, 2020-A section along US Highway 40 is motoring into a new use as a Bus on Shoulder (BOS) lane dedicated to Steamboat Springs Transit buses which will allow them to cruise along during congested travel conditions.
“The city appreciates CDOT’s flexibility and support to enhance the transit network in Steamboat Springs and improve on-time service delivery,” commented City Engineer Ben Beall. “Several metropolitan areas are utilizing or expanding their BOS lanes and we’re interested in seeing the effect it has locally for our transit system.”
The project is a partnership between the City of Steamboat Springs and Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) and enables SST buses to use the shoulder to bypass long traffic queues.
The pilot BOS section will run in the west direction from Hilltop Parkway to 3rd Street. Buses will maintain a maximum speed of between 10 to 15 mph when using these lanes.
During peak hours, there is typically a traffic queue along Lincoln Avenue in the westbound approach into downtown to the 3rd Street intersection. This stretch consistently reaches to the top of the hill and during certain days can back up to Hilltop Parkway. The bus on shoulder will keep transit service flowing during these congested time frames and promote mass transit as viable transportation option.
It is important to note that designated lanes are regulatory and that use of the lane by other vehicles can result in the issuance of a traffic violation. Making a right turn along the BOS lane would be like being next to a bike lane. Vehicles should cautiously merge into the BOS/Bike lane immediately before the anticipated right turn and then turn from the curb (see diagram). Using the BOS lane to bypass traffic to 3rd Street is not permitted.
“By using BOS lanes, we should save three to five minutes per loop helping keep buses on schedule especially during high volume times,” said Transit Manager Jonathan Flint. “Making SST an attractive alternative for getting around town has been our overall goal and the new lane will aid in that effort.”
Apex Design Group was hired to develop a signing and striping plan to accommodate bus and bicycle travel along the shoulder from Hilltop to 3rd Street as seen in the photo.
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Contact
Ben Beall, City Engineer, 970.871.8293 or email
Jonathan Flint, Transit Manager, 970.875.1516 or email
Michael Lane, Communications Manager, 970.871.8220 or email