RTC Bus Stop Additions Light the Way for Safer Transit Experience
The Regional Transportation Commission of Southern Nevada (RTC) is proud to announce the latest improvements to enhance safety for transit riders, with the installation and upgrade of lighting at nearly 1,400 transit bus stops. Two different projects include new lighting equipment that not only creates a safer environment at otherwise dark bus stops, but also increases visibility, allowing bus drivers approaching the stop to better see waiting passengers.
The RTC is leveraging $4 million in federal grant funding to pay for the projects and has spent $22.4 million since 2008 to help improve bus and bus stop safety for our transit passengers.
1,100 bus shelters with lighting system
The RTC has been installing a robust lighting system at nearly 1,100 bus shelters throughout the valley. Construction for the bus shelter lighting project has been ongoing since March 2020 and is anticipated to be complete by November 2020.
300 bus stops with solar lights
The RTC has initiated a separate lighting project to install standalone solar lights at a total of 300 bus stops that currently lack a shelter and/or nearby lighting from a streetlight or other source. The solar lights are able to remain illuminated from dusk until dawn. Installation across Southern Nevada began in June 2020 and is expected to be complete by December 2020.
“The lighting projects are yet another move on our behalf to put our passengers’ safety first,” said Francis Julien, RTC deputy chief executive officer. “We heard the message loud and clear from riders who said they didn’t feel safe at some of our bus stops due to the lack of lighting. We are addressing those concerns with these projects to make our riders feel comfortable and safe while using our system.”
Dusk 2 Dawn Campaign
The RTC is partnering with the Southern Nevada Pedestrian Education Task Force to promote this year’s Dusk 2 Dawn Campaign, which encourages pedestrian safety especially as daylight saving time comes to an end and the sun sets earlier in the day. Drivers are reminded to be aware of pedestrians, but the campaign advocates that pedestrians should also take the following precautions:
- Wear reflectors.
- Cross at corners and crosswalks.
- Watch out for headlights.
- Don’t assume drivers can see you.
To learn more about #Dusk2DawnNV, CLICK HERE.