Learning Hub

Module 1: Why Do Cities Need BRT?

This module explains the importance of providing high-quality public transport for all and BRT’s role in promoting equity, efficiency and support for the environment. BRT corridors offer a powerful solution for building sustainable and equitable transport systems by reducing carbon emissions, improving air quality and public health, promoting economic development, enhancing road safety, and beyond.

Goals of Module 1:
  • Understand why BRT is an equitable solution for addressing diverse mobility needs while maximizing efficiency in cities.
  • Learn why BRT can be the right mode for climate adaptation and serve as a resilient transport solution for different contexts.

Lesson 1: Why Do Cities Need BRT?

This section provides resources exploring why cities should invest in BRT systems as a high-capacity, equitable and efficient transport mode. This section discusses the impact of BRT on access and mobility for people, and its critical benefits for the environment. By providing reliable and efficient transport options, BRT systems improve overall quality of life, stimulate economic activity, and contribute to the development of vibrant communities. Additionally, we examine the advantages that BRT offers in comparison to other types of transit systems. 

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Future of Public Transport (2023, English and Spanish) | Webinar – Duration: 00:75:00 

 

The webinar articulates what the future of public transport should look like and how we can shape it. The experts share insights into how public transport should be reimagined, considering key aspects of equity, funding, financing, and resiliency of public transport. The experts also discuss recommendations for cities and stakeholders around the world, aiming to enhance the understanding and implementation of sustainable public transport solutions.

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The Compact City Scenario – Electrified (2021, English) | Video – Duration: 00:01:35

 

The impacts of climate change are already wreaking havoc on ecosystems and economies in cities worldwide. To limit global warming to less than 1.5°C, governments will need to come up with strategies to reduce emissions, especially from the transport sector. This video shares a comprehensive strategy for compact, mixed-use cities built around walking, cycling, and public transit, combined with investments into electric vehicles. Embracing both electrification and mode shift is essential to helping cities keep emissions below the threshold curve.

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Guangzhou BRT Stories (2017, Chinese and English) | Video – Duration 00:04:01

 

BRT seeks to deliver high-quality service and speed. In large cities like Guangzhou, China, BRT systems are particularly attractive due to their cost-effectiveness, relatively fast implementation, and better accessibility for the public. This short video shares the mobility benefits of the Guangzhou BRT system from the perspective of three everyday residents: a young schoolboy, a woman, and a retiree.

Lesson 2: What is BRT?

In this lesson, we explore the fundamental components that make up a BRT system, shedding light on its five essential elements.  

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What is BRT (2018, English) | Video – Duration: 00:01:31 

 

The three main issues that hinder traditional public transport and bus systems are boarding and alighting, intersections, and traffic congestion. BRT solves for all three. This short, animated video defines BRT and its basic elements, including busway alignment, dedicated right of way, off-board fare collection, intersection treatments, and platform-level boarding. 

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BRT Basics – Infographic (2025)

 

The “BRT Basics” infographic outlines the five basic elements of BRT systems: dedicated bus lanes; platform-level boarding; off-board fare collection; intersection treatments; and median-aligned busways.

Lesson 3: BRT Basics Design and Planning

Project preparation lays the groundwork for initiating a BRT system, from the initiation of a project to sparking real momentum that will bring the project into reality.  

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BRT 101 (2018, English) | Webinar – Duration: 00:56:06 

 

The appeal of BRT is the ability to deliver a high-quality mass transit system within the budgets of most municipalities, even in lower-income cities. Planning and implementing a good BRT system is not easy. This webinar is a high-level overview of the BRT planning process. It discusses what makes a good BRT system, and the basic steps needed to plan a system. This webinar is intended for the public.  

Additional Resources

Next Step

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We are excited to keep you informed about our latest resources related to BRT, public transport, and beyond. If you have any questions or need further information, please do not hesitate to reach out to us at [email protected] or join our mailing list here. We look forward to staying connected with you. 

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