Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does the bus stop at the station, but the doors don’t open?
In an effort to help keep riders and bus operators safe, when a bus is at or over capacity, the bus operator will turn on the “Drop-Off Only” sign and continue to stop at every station. The doors will remain closed unless a rider has requests a stop. When a rider exits the bus, you may be asked not to board due to overcrowding. Please wait for the next available bus. Riders waiting at the station can check the digital message sign for alerts, letting them know when the next bus is full.
Riding Tempo Line 1T
I need help at a station. Who should I contact?
If you are experiencing or reporting an emergency such as a crime or accident, call 911.
If you need more information about riding Tempo Line 1T including navigating the new service and paying your fare, you can ask a Tempo Platform Agent. You can also call our Customer Service Center on Monday through Friday, 6:00 am to 7:00 pm; Saturday and Sunday, 9:00 am to 5:00 pm at (510) 891-4777. Language assistance is available.
What are Tempo Platform Agents?
Tempo Platform Agents are uniformed AC Transit employees who perform a variety of customer service duties including assisting riders with directions, station locations, transfers, schedules, fare payment, and learning how to navigate the new Tempo service.
How do I pay for my trip on Tempo?
You can use one of the Clipper card readers or a ticket vending machine—both are available at each station. Ticket vending machines accept cash, credit/debit cards, as well as Apple and Google Pay. If you already have an active AC Transit Day Pass, 31-Day Pass, or EasyPass, you can also use those as payment for Tempo Line 1T.
What door should I use to board the bus?
Riders board Tempo buses through multiple doors. To further ease the boarding process, some doors are designed for certain riders. Here are the details on where you should board:
Middle doors: Riders with mobility devices or who require priority seating should board here; other riders are welcome to board after these riders.
Rear doors: Riders with bikes and strollers should board here; other riders are welcome to board here as well.
Front door: The front door will only be used in an emergency. For boarding during regular service, please use the middle and rear doors.
Are pets allowed on the bus?
Pets must be carried in a secure container small enough to fit on the owner’s lap, and the animal must not be a danger or annoyance to other passengers. Service animals which are under the physical control and supervision of the owner at all times, are always allowed on AC Transit buses.
Can I take Tempo Line 1T to get to a BART Station?
Yes! Tempo Line 1T’s San Leandro Transit Station connects with the San Leandro BART Station and Tempo Line 1T’s Uptown Oakland Station connects with the 19th Street BART Station.
What is a median station? Do I have to cross the street to catch the bus on Tempo Line 1T?
Tempo Line 1T has 12 curbside stations and 21 median stations. Curbside stations are located near the sidewalk so you can catch the bus similarly to other AC Transit stops. Median stations are in the median strip of the street so you’ll need to cross into the median to access them. Use crosswalks and follow the direction of the crossing signals to safely cross the street.
What security measures are in place to keep riders safe?
Alameda County Sheriff’s Deputies and Sheriff Technicians will be patrolling the area around Tempo Line 1T including buses and stations. Additional safety measures include cameras installed on every bus and station. Tempo Platform Agents are present to help riders learn and follow safety guidelines.
Driving Alongside Tempo Line 1T
Is there a barrier between the traffic lane and the bus-only lane?
There is no physical barrier separating the bus-only lane from the general traffic lane traveling in the same direction.
How do I make left turns while driving near a bus-only lane?
For your safety, only use designated left turn lanes. Driving in bus-only lanes is prohibited.
Additional Questions About Tempo Line 1T
Can emergency vehicles (e.g. ambulance, police, and fire department vehicles) use the bus-only lanes?
Emergency vehicles can and will use the bus-only lanes whenever necessary to avoid traffic delays. Bus operators will yield to emergency vehicles.
Who is responsible to help keep the stations clean?
We have assigned AC Transit team members to assist with maintaining the stations, but we need your help to keep stations at their best for our community. Please don’t smoke, vape, eat, drink, deface, or vandalize the Tempo stations. We appreciate your help!
How do I report an obstruction in the bus-only lane?
If you notice an obstruction in the bus-only lane, please contact the City of Oakland by calling 311. If you notice trash or debris in the bus-only lane, contact AC Transit Monday through Friday, 6:00 am to 7:00 pm; Saturday and Sunday, 9:00 am to 5:00 pm at (510) 891-4777. You can also report this to an available Tempo Platform Agent.
What type of buses are used to operate Tempo Line 1T?
Tempo Line 1T’s bus fleet consists of 27 new 60-foot articulated hybrid-electric buses which feature a design exclusive to Tempo buses.