Miami-Dade County’s SMART Program
Miami-Dade County’s ambitious SMART Program is transforming the region’s transportation landscape with its visionary approach and integration of cutting-edge technology. Among the program’s notable initiatives is the South Dade TransitWay Corridor, a 20-mile route connecting several rapidly growing communities in the county. Spearheaded by Alice Bravo while serving as DTPW director, the project aims to enhance mobility options and accommodate future population and employment growth.
Construction on the South Dade TransitWay Corridor is well underway, with significant progress made as of April 2023. Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) stations along the corridor are being expanded and upgraded, featuring amenities like railings, lighting, bicycle storage, and repair areas. Tech trusses equipped with speakers, CCTV cameras, and display monitors provide real-time arrival and departure information to passengers. The BRT stations also boast air-conditioned vestibules with tinted glass and a roof designed to shield riders from the elements while allowing natural light to permeate the space.
The project’s focus extends beyond the stations themselves, with key locations along the TransitWay being improved for better access and functionality. Road widening efforts at crucial junctions, such as SW 264th Street, are underway to accommodate the new infrastructure required for BRT operations. These enhancements include fiber installations for improved signal timing, as well as the addition of new sidewalks and landscaping.
The South Dade Rapid Transit Project broke ground on June 4, 2021, marking a significant milestone for the South Dade TransitWay. This corridor, part of the larger SMART Program, connects various municipalities, including the Miami Central Business District, the Village of Pinecrest, the Village of Palmetto Bay, the Town of Cutler Bay, the City of Homestead, and Florida City.
The selection of Bus Rapid Transit as the preferred mode of transportation for the South Dade TransitWay corridor was approved by the Miami-Dade Transportation Planning Organization Governing Board in August 2018. Subsequently, the project received confirmation of $100 million in funding from the Federal Transit Administration in May 2020. Design-Build Services commenced in February 2021, and the completion of the entire project is slated for 2024.
Once finalized, the South Dade TransitWay Corridor will offer commuters rail-like travel times, iconic stations, level boarding through all doors, and pre-paid fares for expedited access. Enhanced safety features and dedicated lanes with multi-layered service lines will further enhance the overall transportation experience in the area. With its comprehensive approach and integration of advanced technology, the South Dade TransitWay Corridor is poised to revolutionize transportation in Miami-Dade County and support its thriving communities.
Original article at: https://www.miamidade.gov/global/transportation/smart-plan-south-dade-transit-way-corridor.page