Miami-Dade Preps Nation's Longest Electric BRT

Miami-Dade activates rail-like gate arms for 20-mile electric BRT system launching in 2025

Miami-Dade Activates Gate Arms for BRT Launch

Miami-Dade County's activated new rail-like gate arms at roadway intersections along the South Dade TransitWay, preparing for the nation's longest battery electric bus rapid transit system. The gate arms support the new Bus Rapid Transit service launching in 2025, which will connect Homestead to Dadeland South along a 20-mile corridor. Phase one of the gate arm activation was completed in late fall 2024, with phases two and three starting at the beginning of 2025.

Nation's Longest Electric BRT System

The South Dade TransitWay will become the longest battery electric bus rapid transit system in the nation when service begins in 2025. Transit officials said the 20-mile corridor was designed to provide express Metrobus service between southern Miami-Dade communities and the Dadeland South transit hub. The gate arms function similarly to railroad crossings, giving BRT buses priority at intersections while protecting drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians. Signal preemption technology will allow transit vehicles to move through intersections more efficiently, reducing travel times for riders.

14 Stations with Premium Amenities

The new BRT system will feature 14 stations equipped with real-time bus arrival displays, air-conditioned vestibules, free Wi-Fi, and pre-boarding fare collection. Service frequency will be 7.5 minutes during peak hours, 15 minutes off-peak, and 30 minutes on weekends, with no fare increases planned. All-electric BRT buses will provide level boarding, all-door boarding, 24-hour security, and on-board bike storage. Transit officials said existing local bus service will continue operating alongside the new Metro Express service, with transfers available at all 14 BRT stations.

Phased Activation Through Early 2025

The gate arm activation follows a three-phase timeline, with the first phase completed in late fall 2024. Phases two and three began at the beginning of 2025, bringing additional intersections online ahead of the BRT service launch later this year. Transit officials said the phased approach allows for testing and adjustments before full service begins.

Safety Guidelines for Drivers

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 gate arms enhance safety for all road users by clearly indicating when BRT buses have priority at intersections. Riders can track real-time bus arrivals and plan trips using Moovit, which provides updates for Miami-Dade transit services including the upcoming South Dade TransitWay BRT system.