Cityscape // This notice in the 1700 block of Colorado Avenue in the West End signals that construction may soon be finished on GRTC’s new bus rapid-transit system called “Pulse.”
GRTC promised to overhaul regular bus routes and bus stops when Pulse starts operations, and the new signs posted around the area indicate GRTC is preparing for the end of construction and the start of service changes.
The completion of Pulse would be good news for businesses that have lost customers along the Pulse route because of the construction work and commuters weary of the traffic disruption the $64 million project has created, particularly along Broad Street.
In a statement to the Free Press on Monday, GRTC spokeswoman Carrie Rose Pace stated that “construction activities continue for the GRTC Pulse project,” noting that June 30 remains the fixed completion date under the contract with Lane Construction Co.
“The project team continues to push to get the work completed as early as possible and will announce a service launch date” when that is known, she stated, adding that Pulse service is projected to begin this summer following testing and approval.
Next week, Pulse stations at 10 locations are scheduled to get finishing touches, including installation of cedar ceilings inside stations and pedestrian curb cuts to make it easier for people in wheelchairs to reach the stations.
No additional work is scheduled on stations at four locations for the week beginning Sunday, April 8, according to GRTC. Those stations are located on Broad Street at Willow Lawn Drive, Staples Mill Road, Cleveland Street and the Science Museum of Virginia.
