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Pace Development Guidelines |
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Pace Development Guidelines |
B. BUS STOP LOCATION
Bus stops are placed in one of three locations: near-side (located immediately before an intersection); far-side (located immediately after an intersection); and mid-block (located between intersections). Figure V-1 illustrates each of the bus stop locations along with parking setbacks and bus stop signs. Each of these locations offer advantages to vehicle drivers and pedestrians. However, the final decision on bus stop locations dependent on ease of operation, transfer situations, space availability, traffic volumes. Pace performs on-site evaluations of proposed bus stop to analyze operating conditions and identify appropriate bus stop locations.
A majority of Pace's bus stops are on the near-side of intersections. Near-side bus stop sign placement is generally 10 feet from the corner tangent point and 5 feet from the outer curb. However, site characteristics will ultimately dictate exact sign location. Where site limitations exist, the sign should be setback a minimum of 2 feet.
Near-side locations offer a number of features to pedestrians and vehicle drivers. This location allows pedestrians to cross in front of the bus. This location also allows transit users to load and alight from buses close to crosswalks and intersections, thereby minimizing, walking distances to connecting transit service.
Far-side bus stop locations are recommended on routes in which buses make left turns at intersections. Once a bus negotiates a left turn, a far-side stop provides a more appropriate service point. Far-side stops also are recommended in locations where dedicated right turn lanes are present. Far-side stops may facilitate easier bus re-entry into traffic due to gaps created by intersection traffic signals.
Another bus stop location is the mid-block stop. A mid-block location is generally less congested than an intersection. Bus turnouts are most effectively located in a mid-block bus stop zone. Mid block stops are applicable at T-intersections or locations generating a larger passenger volume.
Pace currently provides and installs bus stop signs on Pace routes at no cost to communities and developers. These signs identify the location of Pace's service points as well as the route(s) serving the bus stop. Developers should consult Pace during their initial development planning stages to identify potential bus stop locations and to request Pace signs (see Figure V-2). For assistance, please contact Pace's Section Manager of Operating Services at (847)228-2488.
Pace encourages municipalities to place "No Parking" signs at bus stop locations and requests that the local police departments strictly enforce parking restrictions in these zones. Parking restrictions are necessary so that buses can gain access to their service points.
Revised: November, 1999.