FYI from MCI™

Coach-based Commuter Rapid Transit promises passengers an easy ride

Fuel prices and commuting times are rising at exponential rates across the country. Even communities once considered rural have been consumed by urban sprawl. The overwhelming result has been a cry from commuters for alternate solutions to get to and from work. One of the most exciting concepts now being widely adopted is Bus Rapid Transit (BRT).

BRT can take many forms, and one that's quickly gaining popularity is "Commuter BRT" or, as MCI likes to call it, "CRT." GO Transit in Toronto is an excellent example of this concept in action.  High-floor commuter CRT coaches are offering much-needed capacity to GO Transit, complementing commuter rail operations. The service has been well received and is continuing to grow at a rate that outpaces average traffic volume growth.

At the most basic level, BRT is a cost-effective, flexible rubber-tired alternative to rail. Just as low-floor BRT can be compared to light rail with level boarding, limited seating and short trip length, CRT can be compared to commuter rail with raised high-back reclining seating, overhead parcel rack storage and individual reading lights operating over longer distances and at higher speeds.

MCI is well positioned to serve this burgeoning market. Demand for the MCI® D4500CT Commuter coaches is stronger then ever, and MCI has responded by continuously introducing innovative new options and configurations to serve the specialized needs of this market.

The next time you hear the term "BRT", think "CRT" by MCI.

For more information on MCI's Commuter Rapid Transit coaches, please contact your MCI regional sales manager.

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