Quick Build MacArthur Blvd at Alma Ave Project

Quick Build MacArthur Blvd at Alma Ave Project

The MacArthur and Alma “Quick Build” project, led by AC Transit, will upgrade existing bus stops and build new infrastructure aimed at improving transit service, mobility, and safety for the hundreds of people who frequent the area every day.

The bus stops located at the MacArthur Boulevard and Alma Avenue intersection are vital to students who use AC Transit (lines 653, 657, 658, 680, and 688) to get to Oakland High School. They are equally as important to area residents who use the local bus (line 57), Transbay bus (NX), and the all-nighter bus (805) to get to work and connect with the region. However, motorists driving through this intersection have limited visibility to students or others using the crosswalk to cross MacArthur Boulevard.

The Quick Build project will improve the transit experience by:

  • Relocating the two existing bus stops.
  • Installing a bus shelter and new sidewalk.
  • Building a pedestrian bulb-out at the intersection.
  • Adding signage to improve pedestrian safety.

Key Project Elements

Better Bus Stops:

  • Expand the existing bus loading zone to allow buses to pull in and out of stops more efficiently, which improves bus reliability while reducing congestion at the intersection.
  • Install a bus shelter to improve comfort for students and other bus riders.

Improved Safety:

  • Add a pedestrian bulb-out at the northwest corner to increase visibility of pedestrians, reduce the distance and time it takes to cross the road, and provide additional space for students waiting to cross.
  • Relocate bus stops to help make pedestrians more visible to motorists and to prevent traffic from clogging the intersection.
MacArthur Project

Project Schedule

  • Winter 2022/Spring 2023: Outreach and engagement
  • Summer 2023: Finalize project design
  • Summer 2023: Construction

You can sign up to receive project updates and other AC Transit-related news and information at actransit.org/subscribe.

Figure (below) – Illustration of New Bus Stops, Pedestrian Bulb-out, and Sidewalk

Contact Information

Email: planning@actransit.org

Mailing Address:
AC Transit
Service Planning Department
1600 Franklin Street, Oakland, CA 94612
Phone: (510) 891-7262

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Quick Build project?

A Quick Build project swiftly installs, with minimal disruption to the community, near-term treatments to streets that advance equitable mobility.

Will there be any changes or interruptions to transit service during construction?

Buses are expected to run on their regular schedule, but temporary bus stop relocations may occur near the construction zone. Construction is expected during Summer 2023 while Oakland High School is not in session. All AC Transit service interruptions will be posted at affected bus stops. 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 does AC Transit staff make decisions about bus stop relocation?

Several factors contribute to the relocation of an existing bus stop, including safety considerations, bus operations, stop spacing, and policy changes. AC Transit Board Policy No. 501 provides a set of guidelines on bus stop placement with regards to appropriate spacing, location, length, and accessibility.

Will there be any impact to on-street parking?

Yes. Approximately 110’ of unmetered on-street parking on the north side of the street and approximately 85’ of unmetered on-street parking on the south side of the street will be removed to accommodate the bus stop relocations. Approximately 35’ of unmetered on-street parking will be added back where the existing eastbound bus stop is located.

Will these modifications affect bicyclists?

This project will not result in permanent changes to existing bicycle lanes. However, during construction temporary signage may be used to direct traffic. Please help keep construction workers safe by following all traffic control measures.

How is this project being funded?

This project is led by AC Transit with funds from the Metropolitan Transportation Commission’s (MTC) Quick Build Program.

How will the community be notified about Quick Build 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 Build treatments are installed.

How can I provide input?

Please 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