# What the BUS Act Actually Does

The Build Up the Suburbs Act (BUS Act) is designed to make it easier and cheaper for suburban areas to build new public transportation systems, particularly bus-based transit. Right now, federal funding rules make it difficult for smaller transit projects to qualify for money, so this bill raises the spending limits that allow suburban communities to access federal transportation grants. Specifically, it increases the maximum project cost from $100 million to $360 million for certain transit projects, and raises another funding cap from $300 million to $600 million. This means suburban areas that previously couldn't afford to pursue federal funding because their projects were too expensive can now tap into that money.

The bill also creates a new category of transit system that combines bus rapid transit with tolled express lanes. These "express lane transit systems" would let paying vehicles use special lanes alongside buses, but buses would get priority to ensure they move quickly and reliably. This is meant to give suburban communities another tool for building modern transit without the massive costs of rail systems like subways or light rail.

Additionally, the bill tells the federal government to prioritize funding for highway and freight projects that include public transportation components. This encourages a more balanced approach to transportation spending rather than focusing solely on cars and trucks. For everyday people, this could mean better bus service in suburban areas, more transportation options for commuting, and potentially less traffic congestion if more people have reliable transit alternatives to driving.

BUS Act

Bourdeaux, Carolyn

Build Up the Suburbs Act or the BUS Act This bill modifies programs that support public transportation projects, with a particular focus on fixed-guideway transportation systems (e.g., light rail and bus rapid transit). Specifically, the bill expands eligibility for certain grants that support the construction and expansion of such systems. In particular, it increases the cap on federal assistance for Small Starts projects (funded through Capital Investment Grants) from $100 million to $360 million and the total estimated net capital cost from $300 million to $600 million. It also includes express lane transit systems within the scope of fixed guideways. Further, the Department of Transportation must give priority in selecting Nationally Significant Multimodal Freight and Highway Projects to those that include public transportation components.