Guideline

Bus Rapid Transit Program Development and Financing

Abstract

This document provides guidance for a public transportation agency on funding and financing a bus rapid transit service or system. Included is a high-level review of U.S. Federal Transit Administration funding programs that can be applied to BRT as well as non-traditional funding and revenue options; considerations for agencies in pursuing particular funding options; and project scoping guidance.

Document History
Document Number Version Publication Date Publication Related Information
APTA BTS-BRT-GL-007-25 Original 08/27/2025 Published Current

Keywords

bus rapid transit, BRT, Capital Investment Grant (CIG), formula funding, joint development, New Starts, Small Starts, transit-oriented development (TOD), value capture

Summary

Launching a new bus rapid transit project requires careful and strategic planning around how to secure funding. This guideline outlines recommendations and considerations for public transportation agencies around funding, project scoping and fleet/design considerations based on the experiences of subject matter experts. This guideline reflects the state of eligible funding for, and policies related to, BRT as of the publication of the document; these funding programs and policies are subject to change.

​Get Involved

Want to participate in development of this document? Join the Working Group or Learn More

Related Documents

​ ​​