A $133-million proposal would turn CATA’s Route 1 into a Bus Rapid Transit line. Current State talks with Deb Alexander, Assistant Executive Director of the Capital Area Transportation Authority.
A proposal to build a $133-million dollar Bus Rapid Transit line between downtown Lansing and Meridian Township has been attracting more interest lately. The federally funded line would create two lanes on Michigan and Grand River Avenues, both dedicated to rapid transit buses. It would also specify dedicated lanes for drivers turning left and making U-turns.
Supporters say the line would increase capacity, improve traffic and safety and boost the economy. Skeptics and opponents of the plan appear to have become more numerous and more vocal since the beginning of the year. Some of them are saying the line will prevent left turns and worsen traffic for drivers. Some Meridian Township business owners say it will hurt business.
We talk with Deb Alexander, Assistant Executive Director of the Capital Area Transportation Authority, the Bus Rapid Transit project manager. On Friday, we'll hear from an opponent of the project, Mert's Meats co-owner Shirley Decker.