12/12/25

More Fast, Frequent, and Reliable Transit Is One Step Closer to Reality

As Northern Virginia’s population and workforce continue to grow, so does the demand for efficient and flexible transportation options. The Northern Virginia Transportation Authority (NVTA) is leading the way with a blueprint for a connected, all-day Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system to expand fast, frequent, reliable transit service in Northern Virginia with connections across the Washington-Metropolitan area.

NVTA’s BRT Action Plan lays the foundation for delivering cost-effective, high-capacity transit that complements and extends existing transit options, including Metrorail, Virginia Railway Express (VRE), local and commuter bus routes. Building on NVTA’s investment in five BRT segments, already operating or underway in Northern Virginia, the Plan identifies 23 additional routes to significantly expand transit service.

Accommodating Growth with New Options

By 2045, Northern Virginia is projected to welcome 440,000 more people and add 320,000 new jobs. To accommodate this growth, NVTA is prioritizing investments to alleviate strain on existing infrastructure by providing multimodal travel options. A key component includes bringing more BRT to the region.

Building on Current Investments

As Virginia’s leading funding entity for BRT, NVTA has invested more than $880 million so far toward five separate BRT routes. NVTA’s commitment to date lays the groundwork for a fully connected system:

  • The One (Richmond Highway) - $638 million
  • Duke Street Transitway - $87 million
  • West End Transitway - $20 million
  • Route 7 - $102 million
  • Metroway - $36 million

The Metroway project is currently the only operational BRT segment supported with NVTA funding, while the other four are in various stages of development.

How the Action Plan was Developed

The Action Plan was developed over two years through robust analysis and collaboration with local jurisdictions, regional agencies and the community. NVTA convened multiple BRT Planning Working Group meetings, hosted two rounds of public engagement that included focus groups, pop-up events, and online surveys, in addition to receiving endorsements from NVTA committees, before receiving final approval from the Authority.

Shaping the Way Forward with Community Engagement

Public input was essential in shaping the Plan. According to NVTA’s surveys, 72% of respondents said they would consider using BRT if it was available in their area, and most anticipated using the service three days a week. Of the more than 1,500 public comments received, only 5% expressed opposition, highlighting strong regional support for expanding transit service.

What Our Analysis Shows

NVTA’s extensive BRT research points to significant positive impacts if the full BRT system is implemented by 2045.

High Ridership: 47 million riders annually, or approximately 143,000 daily riders

Mode Shift: 27,000 daily trips would shift from driving to transit

Environmental Benefit: 23 tons of carbon dioxide (CO2) avoided daily

Turning the Plan into Action

While the Plan’s adoption serves as a significant milestone, work is already underway to advance it. NVTA and partners are continuing regional efforts to:

  • Secure Funding: Identify and advocate for local, regional, state and federal funding sources.
  • Refine Routes: Collaborate with jurisdictions to meet community needs, building on progress already made.
  • Develop Best Practices: Lead and support efforts to establish BRT design guidelines to support a consistent rider experience, while considering each corridor’s unique needs.
  • Share Findings: Leverage regional partnerships, peer exchanges, and the NVTA BRT Planning Working Group to incorporate local and national lessons learned.
  • Keep Listening to the Community: Maintain outreach and education to ensure voices from all communities shape the support and ultimately the development of a connected BRT system.

Full implementation of a regional BRT network will take time, but the path forward is now clear. NVTA is committed to leading efforts in Northern Virginia, and collaborating with partners across the greater Washington area, to bring a more connected, reliable and accessible transit system that improves the quality of life for all who live, work and travel in the region.

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