**Metro Rapid (disambiguation)**
**Definition:**
Metro Rapid refers primarily to a branded bus rapid transit service in Los Angeles, California, but the term is also used in various contexts to describe rapid transit or express bus services in different metropolitan areas. This disambiguation page clarifies the different uses of „Metro Rapid” across transit systems.
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# Metro Rapid (disambiguation)
The term **Metro Rapid** is most commonly associated with a bus rapid transit (BRT) service operated by the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (Metro) in Southern California. However, „Metro Rapid” or similar phrases are used in various transit systems worldwide to denote rapid or express public transportation services, often designed to provide faster travel times than regular bus routes by utilizing limited stops, dedicated lanes, or priority signaling.
This article provides an overview of the different uses of the term „Metro Rapid,” highlighting its primary association with Los Angeles Metro Rapid bus service and other transit services or systems that use the term or similar names.
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## Contents
1. Metro Rapid in Los Angeles
1.1 Overview
1.2 History and Development
1.3 Service Characteristics
1.4 Fleet and Technology
1.5 Impact and Ridership
2. Other Uses of Metro Rapid
2.1 Metro Rapid in Other U.S. Cities
2.2 International Uses
3. Related Terms and Services
4. See Also
5. References
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## 1. Metro Rapid in Los Angeles
### 1.1 Overview
Metro Rapid is a branded bus rapid transit service operated by the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (Metro). Launched in 2000, Metro Rapid aims to provide faster and more efficient bus service along major corridors in Los Angeles County by combining features such as limited stops, transit signal priority, and distinctive branding.
The service is designed to reduce travel times compared to local bus routes, improve reliability, and attract more riders by offering a higher level of service. Metro Rapid routes typically operate along busy arterial streets and connect key destinations such as downtown Los Angeles, major employment centers, and transit hubs.
### 1.2 History and Development
The Metro Rapid program was initiated in response to growing traffic congestion and the need for improved public transit options in Los Angeles. The first Metro Rapid routes began operation in 2000, with the goal of providing a cost-effective alternative to rail transit by enhancing bus service.
Over time, the Metro Rapid network expanded to include multiple routes across the county, incorporating technological improvements such as real-time bus arrival information and transit signal priority systems. The program has undergone several updates to improve service frequency, stop spacing, and vehicle design.
### 1.3 Service Characteristics
Metro Rapid buses operate with fewer stops than local routes, typically spaced about every half-mile to one mile, allowing for faster travel speeds. The service uses transit signal priority technology to extend green lights or shorten red lights at intersections, reducing delays.
Metro Rapid buses are easily identifiable by their distinctive red color and „Rapid” branding. The routes often run with higher frequency during peak hours and maintain consistent schedules to improve reliability.
### 1.4 Fleet and Technology
The Metro Rapid fleet consists primarily of modern, low-floor buses equipped with features to enhance passenger comfort and accessibility. Many buses are hybrid or compressed natural gas (CNG) vehicles, reflecting Metro’s commitment to environmental sustainability.
Technological enhancements include onboard GPS for real-time tracking, electronic fare collection systems, and transit signal priority equipment. Metro Rapid stops are equipped with enhanced signage and, in some cases, shelters with real-time arrival displays.
### 1.5 Impact and Ridership
Metro Rapid has contributed to increased ridership on corridors served by the service, offering a competitive alternative to private vehicle travel. The program has helped reduce travel times and improve the overall transit experience in Los Angeles.
Studies have shown that Metro Rapid routes attract a diverse ridership, including commuters, students, and tourists. The service continues to be a key component of Metro’s strategy to expand and improve public transportation in the region.
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## 2. Other Uses of Metro Rapid
While the term „Metro Rapid” is most closely associated with Los Angeles, similar terms are used in other transit systems to describe rapid or express bus services. These services share the goal of providing faster, more efficient transit options by limiting stops and employing various operational enhancements.
### 2.1 Metro Rapid in Other U.S. Cities
– **Houston Metro Rapid:** The Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County (METRO) in Houston, Texas, operates a service branded as „METRO Rapid.” This service features limited-stop bus routes designed to provide faster travel times along major corridors. Similar to Los Angeles, Houston’s METRO Rapid uses transit signal priority and enhanced bus stops.
– **San Diego Rapid:** While not branded as „Metro Rapid,” the San Diego Metropolitan Transit System (MTS) operates Rapid bus routes that function similarly, offering limited-stop service with transit priority features.
– **Other Cities:** Various other U.S. cities have implemented rapid or express bus services with similar naming conventions, though not always using the exact term „Metro Rapid.” These services often share characteristics such as limited stops, higher frequency, and priority signaling.
### 2.2 International Uses
The phrase „Metro Rapid” or similar terms are occasionally used in international contexts to describe rapid transit or express bus services, though the exact branding and service models vary widely.
– **Mexico City:** The Mexico City Metrobus system includes several lines that provide bus rapid transit service, though the term „Metro Rapid” is not officially used. However, colloquially or in translation, some may refer to these services as rapid metro buses.
– **Other Countries:** In some countries, rapid transit bus services may be branded with terms that translate to „Metro Rapid” or similar, reflecting the concept of rapid, metro-style bus service.
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## 3. Related Terms and Services
Several related terms and transit service models are associated with the concept of Metro Rapid:
– **Bus Rapid Transit (BRT):** A high-quality bus-based transit system that delivers fast, comfortable, and cost-effective services through dedicated lanes, priority signaling, and enhanced stations.
– **Express Bus Service:** Bus routes that operate with limited stops, often during peak hours, to provide faster service over longer distances.
– **Metro Local:** In Los Angeles, Metro Local refers to the standard bus service with frequent stops, contrasting with Metro Rapid’s limited-stop service.
– **Transit Signal Priority (TSP):** Technology used to improve bus travel times by adjusting traffic signals to favor transit vehicles.
– **Limited-Stop Service:** Bus routes that stop only at major intersections or transfer points to reduce travel time.
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## 4. See Also
– Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority
– Bus Rapid Transit
– Transit Signal Priority
– Express Bus Service
– Metro Local (Los Angeles)
– Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County (Houston METRO)
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## 5. References
*Note: This article is a disambiguation and overview; specific references to transit agency publications, ridership reports, and transportation studies are available through respective transit authorities.*
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**Meta Description:**
Metro Rapid primarily refers to a bus rapid transit service in Los Angeles, but the term is also used for similar rapid transit or express bus services in other cities. This article clarifies the different uses and characteristics of Metro Rapid services.