Clark County, Washington, receives federal funds for new Bus Rapid Transit system

The Federal Transit Administration (FTA), a branch of the U.S. Department of Transportation, announced Sept. 10 that federal funds have been awarded to Clark County, Washington, for its new Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system.

The funding, which amounts to $38.5 million, will be used to give transit riders more convenient service with the new BRT system. The new system will be called the Vine and will operate faster than the old system. It will cover the Fort Vancouver Way and 4th Plain Boulevard corridors, both of which are heavily traveled by commuters.

“We are proud to support the Vine, which will bring efficient, affordable rapid transit to Clark County,” FTA Acting Administrator Therese McMillan said. “This project will encourage growth and development in downtown Vancouver as well as transform the way people get to major employment and education centers like Clark College and the Veterans’ Administration Hospital.”

The new system will have 10 new 60-foot buses, increasing the passenger capacity on routes by approximately 50 percent. The buses will use new stations, and these stations will be easier and faster for boarding.

“Bus rapid transit is a proven and effective way to relieve congestion, improve service, and stimulate economic growth, especially in fast-growing communities like Clark County,” U.S. Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx said. “Through common-sense solutions like the Rapid Growth Area Transit Program ... reliable, long-term funding would be provided for BRT and other essential transportation projects around the country.”