Rapid Transit Study

The Rapid Transit Study will evaluate rapid transit options and determine a Locally Preferred Alternative in the Gorham-Westbrook-Portland corridor. This study will supplement Transit Tomorrow, our region's long-range transportation plan, by addressing one of the plan's main goals: developing rapid transit options to connect our region's major market centers.  

What is Rapid Transit?

Rapid transit is a form of public transportation on a fixed route that includes features that dramatically improve the speed, capacity, reliability, and quality of service. Bus rapid transit, light rail, commuter rail, and streetcars are a few examples of rapid transit. 

Project Timeline

Spring 2022 – Project kickoff; project team will define project purpose, needs, and goals.

Summer 2022 – Project team will collect data, analyze existing conditions, and write an environmental inventory.   

Fall 2022 & Winter 2023 – Project team will analyze alternatives. 

Summer 2023 – Project team will work conduct economic development analysis and begin the application process for Federal Transit Administration funding.  

Fall 2023 – Project team will submit final report. 

(Note: this timeline is subject to change)

Funding

The study is funded by the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act.