Silver Line (Grand Rapids)

The Silver Line route travels 9.6 miles (15 km), mostly along Division Avenue from 60th Street on the Wyoming-Kentwood border, crossing into the City of Grand Rapids at 28th Street, and after Wealthy Street loops around the downtown area to Central Station in Grand Rapids.

Between 28th Street and Wealthy Street, Division Avenue has two "bus only" lanes which during peak hours only allow Silver Line vehicles passage, reducing delays due to conflicts with general traffic during busy times. There are also bus lanes on Monroe Avenue and Michigan Street.

Bus Lane Ahead sign on Division Avenue

The route also necessitated the introduction of the city's first transit-only traffic signal, at the intersection of Fulton Street and Ransom Avenue. This light assists the southbound Silver Line bus to turn left from its right lane position. Regular traffic is funneled into a single lane regardless of which direction they wish to turn.

View of the southbound station, located on Ransom Avenue. The bus turns left from the right lane with the aid of a dedicated signal. General traffic uses the left lane to turn right or left.

A parking lot was created at the southern terminus at 60th Street and Division, and acts as a Park'n'Ride facility. Parking at the facility is free.

Park'n'Ride lot visible to the right.

The fare structure is integrated with the rest of the Rapid bus network. A single fare costs $1.75, a day pass (valid until midnight) costs $3.50. Weekly and monthly passes as well as 10-ride passes are available. Unlike on the regular bus services, fares must be paid or validated prior to boarding.[2]

As of September 1, 2016, the service is free in the downtown area between Central Station and Wealthy Street. Rides originating or with destination south of Wealthy Street are subject to payment.

The Silver Line provides service 7 days a week, during similar hours to the rest of the Rapid network.

• Interurban Transit Partnership
• List of bus rapid transit systems

• Official website