Locally Preferred Alternative (LPA)

In 2023, METRO RTA conducted a comprehensive countywide Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) Feasibility Study that identified four promising corridors for potential development: Market/Exchange, State/Main, Kenmore/Barberton, and South Arlington. This study expanded on the Reimagine METRO network redesign and assessed factors such as travel demand, reliability, equity, access needs, and feasibility of implementation. Collaboration with regional agencies, partner cities, and community stakeholders helped validate key challenges like slow travel times, signal delays, transfer difficulties, and inconsistent stop amenities. Potential solutions considered include BRT infrastructure improvements, station enhancements, targeted transit signal priority (TSP), and queue jump treatments. The current solicitation, titled "Locally Preferred Alternative (LPA)", aims to advance the next phase by refining route alternatives, selecting the initial corridor for development, and preparing necessary design, cost, and environmental documentation to support project development and federal funding applications. The solicitation, issued by Ohio’s Planning agency and located in Akron, is open until April 9, 2026. Key contacts for this project include Nathan Leppo, Director of Planning & Strategic Development, and Patti Taylor, Procurement Specialist. This effort positions METRO RTA to move forward with a well-defined BRT project that addresses identified transit challenges in the region.