LA Expands Bus Lane Tech to Speed Up Transit
Metro adds automated bus lane enforcement to Lines 910, 950, and 70 starting May 12
Metro Expands Bus Lane Enforcement in LA
Drivers who illegally use bus lanes on three more Metro lines in Greater Los Angeles will start receiving automated tickets beginning May 12. Metro's expanding its bus lane enforcement program to Lines 910, 950, and 70, transit officials said. The expansion aims to keep dedicated bus lanes clear and help buses maintain schedules across the region.
Building on Initial Success
The expansion represents Phase 2 of Metro's automated enforcement program, which launched with a 60-day warning period on November 1, 2024, along the Wilshire/La Brea corridor. Active ticketing for Lines 720 and 212 began February 17, 2025, after the warning period concluded. Metro and LADOT are collaborating on the enforcement program to ensure dedicated bus lanes remain clear for public transit. The phased approach allows drivers time to adjust to the new enforcement while demonstrating the agencies' commitment to improving transit reliability.
Enforcement Details
Automated cameras will monitor bus lanes on the three newly added lines and issue citations to vehicles illegally using the restricted lanes. Officials didn't specify the fine amount for violations or whether Phase 2 will include a warning period similar to Phase 1's 60-day grace period. The enforcement technology captures license plate information when vehicles enter bus-only lanes during restricted hours. Metro said the program's designed to improve bus speeds and service reliability by keeping lanes clear for transit vehicles.
Implementation Timeline
Phase 2 enforcement begins May 12, 2025, for Lines 910, 950, and 70. The timeline follows Metro's graduated approach that started with warnings in November 2024 and progressed to active ticketing in February 2025 for the initial corridor. Officials haven't announced whether additional lines will be added to the enforcement program or when a potential Phase 3 might begin.
Impact on Riders and Drivers
The expanded enforcement should help buses maintain schedules and provide more reliable service for riders who depend on the three newly enforced lines. Drivers who previously used bus lanes to bypass traffic will need to stay in regular lanes or face automated citations. Moovit provides real-time updates for Metro bus routes, helping riders track arrivals and plan trips across the Los Angeles transit network.
