Miami-Dade BRT Adds Gate Arms for Safe Launch

Miami-Dade installs rail-like gate arms at intersections for 20-mile BRT corridor

Miami-Dade Adds Gate Arms for BRT Safety

Miami-Dade County's activated rail-like gate arms at roadway intersections along the South Dade TransitWay to protect drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians as the corridor prepares for Bus Rapid Transit service. The safety installations support express Metrobus routes that'll travel the 20-mile corridor from Homestead to Dadeland South when BRT service starts in 2025. Phase one of the gate arm activation was completed in late fall 2024.

Nation's Longest Battery Electric BRT Corridor

The South Dade TransitWay will become the longest battery electric bus rapid transit system in the nation on a dedicated corridor, transit officials said. The 20-mile route connects communities from Homestead to Dadeland South, providing a critical north-south link for South Dade residents. The gate arms are being activated in three phases, with phases two and three starting at the beginning of 2025. Officials said the rail-like barriers ensure buses can travel efficiently while maintaining safety for all road users at intersections.

14 Stations With Enhanced Amenities Planned

The new BRT system will feature 14 stations with real-time bus arrival displays, air-conditioned vestibules, free Wi-Fi, and pre-boarding fare collection, according to the county. Service frequency will be 7.5 minutes during peak hours, 15 minutes off-peak, and 30 minutes on weekends. Fares will remain the same and can be purchased at BRT stations using EASY Card or credit cards. The system will provide level boarding, all-door boarding, 24-hour security, and on-board bike storage for passengers.

Gate Arm Activation Continues Through Early 2025

Phase one of the gate arm installation was completed in late fall 2024, with phases two and three beginning at the start of 2025, officials said. The phased approach allows the county to test and refine the safety systems before full BRT service launches later in 2025. The installations prepare the dedicated corridor for high-frequency electric bus service throughout the year.

Drivers Must Obey New Safety Signals

Drivers should slow down, obey all signs and signals, and only proceed when gate arms are fully raised and lights are off, transit officials said. The rail-like barriers operate similarly to railroad crossings, lowering when buses approach to ensure safe passage through intersections. Riders can track real-time bus arrivals and plan trips along the new BRT corridor using Moovit, which provides updates for Miami-Dade transit services.