New Curb Extensions Coming to Downtown Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh Regional Transit today began installing curb extensions to enhance pedestrian safety, improve accessibility, and support more efficient bus service at five key bus stops in downtown Pittsburgh.
The new extensions -- also known as bus bulbs or bumpouts -- are designed to align the bus stop with the parking lane, allowing buses to stop to pick up and drop off riders without weaving in and out of traffic. This increases pedestrian safety by giving riders more visibility in a protected waiting area, increases operational efficiency by reducing dwell time, and makes boarding buses safer and easier, particularly riders who use mobility devices like canes, walkers or wheelchairs.
“Modular curb extensions are a smart, flexible investment in safer, more accessible streets,” said PRT CEO Katharine Kelleman. “They increase visibility and give riders more space to wait and board, particularly in busy areas where sidewalk space is limited.”
The platforms are made from recycled and recyclable materials like old banners, hoses, and cable covers. The pieces are anchored on top of existing concrete, allowing for quick installation and potential reuse at other locations in the future. The bumpouts are manufactured by Zicla with a total project cost of $800,000.
Similar platforms have been installed in more than 400 cities around the world in the past two decades and have proven to be an effective way to improve urban mobility without major infrastructure investments.
The Downtown Pittsburgh locations receiving these upgrades are:
· Forbes Avenue at Grant Street
· Wood Street at Sixth Avenue
· Penn Avenue and Stanwix Street
· Fort Duquesne Boulevard at Sixth Street
· Wood Street at Forbes Avenue – temporarily on hold due to a non-PRT related project
Installation is expected to occur between 9 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. Monday through Friday, with each platform taking up to three days to complete. The work is expected to take three weeks.
The project also includes updates to pavement markings and street signage to support bus turning movements and improve traffic flow.
For more information or to speak with a Customer Service representative, riders can call 412-442-2000, message @PghTransitCare on X (formerly Twitter), or visit www.ridePRT.org for live chat.
