Quick Build MacArthur Blvd at Alma Ave Project
The MacArthur Blvd. at Alma Ave. Quick Build project, led by AC Transit, will upgrade existing bus stops and build new infrastructure aimed at improving transit service, mobility, and safety for the hundreds of people who frequent the area every day.
The bus stops located at the MacArthur Blvd. and Alma Ave. intersection are vital to students who use AC Transit (lines 653, 657, 658, 680, and 688) to get to Oakland High School. They are equally as important to area residents who use the local bus (line 57), Transbay bus (NX), and the all-nighter bus (805) to get to work and connect with the region. However, motorists driving through this intersection have limited visibility to students or others using the crosswalk to cross MacArthur Blvd.
Figure (above) – Illustration of New Bus Stops, Pedestrian Bulb-out, and Sidewalk
The Quick Build project will improve the transit experience by:
- Relocating existing westbound and eastbound bus stops to improve pedestrian visibility and promote rider safety.
- Constructing new sidewalks.
- Building a pedestrian bulb-out at the intersection.
- Adding lane and crosswalk stripping and signage to improve pedestrian safety.
Construction
Construction for this project is slated to begin in July 2024 and be completed by August 2024. Construction crews will install a pedestrian bulb-out ramp, new lane and crosswalk striping, move the locations of the bus stops, and construct new sidewalks. During construction, lanes will be shifted to allow room for the crews to work.
- Bus Stop Temporary Closures: For planned stop closures, use AC Transit RealTime or sign up for our eNews.
- Contact the Construction Management Team: For construction emergencies, comments or questions, please reach out to the MacArthur Blvd. Quick Build project team:
- Email: quickbuild@vsceinc.com
- Phone: 800-429-9940
How to Prepare
- Parking: Identify alternative parking locations in advance.
- Driving: Reduce speed in construction zones and pay attention to construction personnel and equipment.
Construction Table
| Activity | Duration | Approximate Construction Start Date |
|---|---|---|
| Saw cutting, demolition | 3-4 Days | July 2024 |
| Grading | 2-3 Days | July 2024 |
| Curb, gutter, and sidewalk restoration; Forms and concrete work; Asphalt restoration | 7-8 Days | August 2024 |
Dates and times are approximate and subject to change. Approximately two weeks in advance of construction activities at a given location, letter notifications will be provided, and the MacArthur Blvd. Quick Build project team will notify residents, schools, churches, businesses and property owners, by walking the corridor and providing information on the planned construction.
Key Project Elements
Better Bus Stops:
- Expand the existing bus loading zones and both bus stops to allow buses to pull in and out of the stops more efficiently, which improves bus reliability while reducing congestion at the intersection.
Improved Safety:
- Add a pedestrian bulb-out at the northwest corner to increase visibility of pedestrians, reduce the distance and time it takes to cross the road, and provide additional space for students waiting to cross.
- Relocate bus stops to help make pedestrians more visible to motorists and to prevent traffic from clogging the intersection.
Project Schedule
- Winter 2022/Spring 2023: Outreach and engagement
- Winter 2023: Finalize project design
- Summer 2024: Construction
You can sign up to receive project updates and other AC Transit-related news and information by signing up for our eNews.
Contact Information
MacArthur Blvd. Quick Build outreach team
Email: quickbuild@vsceinc.com
Phone: 800-429-9940
For general project comments:
Email: planning@actransit.org
Mailing Address:
AC Transit
Service Planning Department
1600 Franklin Street, Oakland, CA 94612
Phone: (510) 891-7262
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Quick Build project?
A Quick Build project swiftly installs, with minimal disruption to the community, near-term treatments to streets to advance equitable mobility. Roadway treatments can vary but include the potential of raised curbs, vertical posts, new or modified roadside signage, and special red “bus only” lane striping on the roadway.
Will there be any changes or interruptions to transit service during construction?
Buses are expected to run on their regular schedule, but temporary bus stop relocations may occur near the construction zone. Construction is expected during Summer 2024. All AC Transit service interruptions will be posted at impacted bus stops. More details can always be found at www.actransit.org. You can also subscribe to AC Transit’s eNews to receive the most up to date service information.
How does AC Transit staff make decisions about bus stop relocation?
Several factors contribute to the relocation of an existing bus stop, including safety considerations, bus operations, stop spacing, and policy changes. AC Transit Board Policy No. 501 provides a set of guidelines on bus stop placement with regards to appropriate spacing, location, length, and accessibility.
Will there be any impact to on-street parking?
To improve pedestrian visibility and overall accessibility for bus operations, existing bus stops will be relocated in both directions. The eastbound bus stop will be relocated from the southwest corner of MacArthur Blvd. and Alma Ave. to the southeast corner. At the existing eastbound bus stop location 35-feet of unmetered on-street parking will be returned, while approximately 95-feet of red curb will be added at the new location.
Will these modifications affect bicyclists?
This project will not result in permanent changes to existing bicycle lanes. However, during construction temporary signage may be used to direct traffic. Please help keep construction workers safe by following all traffic control measures.
How is this project being funded?
This project is led by AC Transit with funds from the Metropolitan Transportation Commission, Caltrans, and the Federal Transit Administration.
How will the community be notified about Quick Build construction?
Notification letters with project details will be sent in advance to residents, business owners, and property owners followed by hand delivered notices to occupants, schools, churches, and businesses at least three days before the MacArthur Blvd. Quick Build treatments are installed.
How can I provide input?
- Email: quickbuild@vsceinc.com
- Phone: 800-429-9940
For construction emergencies, project comments and questions, please contact the MacArthur Blvd. Quick Build outreach team:
Email: quickbuild@vsceinc.com
Phone: (800) 429-9940
For general project comments:
Email: planning@actransit.org
Mail:
AC Transit
Service Planning and Development Department
1600 Franklin Street
Oakland, CA 94612