SacRT moves forward with study on Bus Rapid Transit service to Sacramento International Airport
SACRAMENTO, Calif. —
Sacramento Regional Transit is moving forward with a feasibility study to explore a faster way to provide service from downtown Sacramento to Sacramento International Airport, with the goal of launching Green Line Bus Rapid Transit service by 2030.
SacRT’s board of directors on Monday gave approval to begin the study to expand Green Line service in early 2027, connecting downtown Sacramento and areas in Natomas to the airport via bus. A spokesperson shared a planned timeline for the project.
Sacramento Regional Transit; Board of Directors’ Meeting, July 27th, 2026.Watch onInitial technical analysis in spring 2027Public outreach in summer 2027Adoption of a Locally Preferred Alternative in fall 2027.
The Locally Preferred Alternative would include the planned route and concept design for the Bus Rapid Transit service.
The aim would be for environmental work to be completed in 2028, and design work in 2029.
SacRT said $500,000 from a Caltrans Strategic Partnerships grant and $200,000 from a Measure A Smart Growth grant can be used for the effort.
Bus Rapid Transit involves traveling on special bus lanes with fewer stops and higher speeds. The specifics of the route, dedicated or priority lanes, stations and transit‑signal priority would all have to be determined.
SacRT has said that expanding the Green Line via light rail is part of its long-term vision. But it would cost more than $2 billion and require a new American River crossing and other infrastructure improvements. New funding sources would also be needed, according to the transit agency.
In contrast, Bus Rapid Transit would be more cost-effective, improve transit options sooner, and build ridership.
An agenda item said that evaluating or implementing the bus service would not preclude a future Green Line by light rail.
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