Quick Build International Blvd Project
AC Transit operates a single bus line along International Boulevard: Line 1T - Tempo Bus Rapid Transit (BRT). Tempo serves approximately 15,000 riders on weekdays and 8,300 riders on weekends, along one of Oakland's most densely populated and culturally diverse regions. It emulates the frequency typically associated with light-rail systems yet ingeniously uses buses.
This project is currently in Final Design, which is expected to conclude in Fall 2023. Construction will begin in early 2024.
Before the introduction of Tempo, the commute from the San Leandro Transit Center to Uptown Oakland could take as long as two hours. However, with the advent of Tempo, the entire trip now takes a mere 50 minutes during peak hours. This impressive reduction in travel time is made possible by a dedicated bus lane and advanced traffic signal technology, which effectively minimizes delays at intersections. The Tempo construction also included numerous curb-to-curb safety improvements.
Operations and Safety Improvements
Despite these improvements, dangerous speeding, reckless driving, and bus lane violations are persistent on this corridor.
Drivers are reminded that the bus only lane is reserved for AC Transit buses and emergency vehicles only. All other use is subject to citations and fines.
To deter unauthorized driving in Tempo’s bus only lanes and enhance safety for passengers, Bus Operators, motorists, and pedestrians, AC Transit secured a $400,000 “Quick Strike” grant. This funding spearheaded the Quick Build preliminary study and the implementation of safety measures along an eight-block section of International Boulevard from 14th to 42nd Avenues. The City of Oakland has contributed an additional $1.7 million to expand the project to 107th Avenue, with focus on locations that have been identified by the city as being prone to severe and fatal crashes. This will lead to roadway improvements that will cover 75% of the corridor. Here are some of the treatments under consideration:
- Yellow vertical posts every 10 feet to clearly separate directions of travel.
- White vertical posts every 15 feet between the BUS ONLY lane and general travel lanes.
- White painted text on pavement to emphasize BUS ONLY lane.
- White painted arrows on pavement to emphasize permissible turns.
- All-new BUS ONLY lane violation and fines signage.
- All-new traffic enforcement Speed Limit signs.
- BUS sign installed on transit signals to separate transit-only use.
Project Schedule
- Community Outreach – Ongoing
- Project Development – Completed Spring 2023
- Treatment & Segment Identification – Completed Summer 2023
- Final Design – Fall 2023
- Begin Construction – Early 2024*
- Begin Project Evaluation – Summer/Fall 2024
* Additional permits and approvals may be required.
At the completion of construction, data and public feedback will be reviewed to help evaluate the project’s effectiveness and determine applicable project elements and other improvements along other portions of International Boulevard.
Funding Partner
Metropolitan Transportation Commission (MTC)
City of Oakland (ACTC Measure BB funds)
Contact Information
For construction-related traffic safety comments:
OAK311 and select "Traffic Safety" Category
Phone: by dialing 311 or (510) 615-5566 Webpage: https://www.oaklandca.gov/services/oak311
For general project comments:
Email: planning@actransit.org
Mailing Address:
AC Transit
Service Planning Department
1600 Franklin Street, Oakland, CA 94612
Phone: (510) 891-7262
Project Area: International Boulevard between 14th Avenue and 107th Avenue
Public Meeting
AC Transit and the Oakland Department of Transportation conducted a virtual public meeting on November 30, 2023 to provide additional project information and answer questions.
By signing up at actransit.org/subscribe, you can also access additional AC Transit news and information.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Quick Strike project?
A Quick Strike project swiftly installs, with minimal disruption to the community, near-term treatments to streets that advance equitable mobility. AC Transit’s Quick Strike project, in coordination with the City of Oakland, will install and test various roadway treatments along International Boulevard between 14th and 107th Avenues aimed at further improving Tempo Line 1T service.
What are Quick Strike treatments?
Roadway treatments can vary but include the potential of raised curbs, vertical posts, new or modified roadside signage, and special red “bus only” lane striping on the roadway.
How will the Quick Strike project benefit my community?
The goal of AC Transit’s Quick Strike project is to discourage motorists from illegally driving within Tempo Line 1T’s bus only lane, speeding, and failure to yield to people walking and biking. Restricting the lane while improving safety conditions enhances Tempo’s impressive reliability for the scores of riders who depend on bus service to access jobs, schools, medical appointments, and more.
International Boulevard recently underwent construction. Why is this happening now?
The Quick Strike project will not involve heavy construction. Instead, the project will relatively swiftly install and test various roadway treatments that improve the frequency of Tempo Line 1T service.
Will on-street parking be affected?
On-street parking is not expected to be impacted. Should an urgent or unforeseen event arise, every effort will be made to place signs at affected parking spaces at least 72 hours in advance.
Will there be road closures or Tempo Line 1T interruptions?
Installing some of the Quick Strike treatments may require temporary road closures. Please help keep construction workers safe by following all traffic control measures. All AC Transit service interruptions will be posted at affected bus stops and Tempo platforms. More details can always be found at actransit.org, and detailed construction information will be posted on a project website. Subscribe to AC Transit’s eNews at actransit.org/subscribe to receive the most up to date service information.
How were decisions made on which locations to study?
AC Transit and the City of Oakland selected the Quick Strike locations after analyzing Tempo Line 1T performance data and data on traffic crashes and other transportation conditions from the City of Oakland and the California Highway Patrol.
How is this preliminary project funded?
AC Transit secured a $400,000 grant from the Metropolitan Transportation Commission’s (MTC) Quick Strike Program to study the effect of various treatments. The City of Oakland committed an additional $400,000 to expand the study.
How will the community be notified about Quick Strike construction?
Notices will be sent via U.S. mail to those who work, live, and own businesses or property in the project area at least one month before construction begins. Supplemental notices will be hand delivered to residents, employers, and property owners two weeks before Quick Strike treatments are installed.
How can I provide input?
AC Transit and the City of Oakland will be partnering on outreach to residents and businesses near the locations included in the Quick Build pilot. Please also submit your comments to:
Email: planning@actransit.org
Phone: (510) 891-7262
Mail:
AC Transit
Service Planning and Development Department
1600 Franklin Street
Oakland, CA 94612