Concrete Bus Pads and Roadway Resurfacing

In preparation for the new BusPlus Purple Line, CDTA has been constructing roadway improvements along the Washington Western corridors. These have included enhancements to transportation infrastructure such as new BRT stations, sidewalks, crosswalks, and other pedestrian improvements, along with upgrades to traffic signals. Two of the investments CDTA is making to communities along the corridor are right under your feet (or wheels)! At all of the BRT intersections, CDTA has been installing concrete bus pads and resurfacing the asphalt on the roadway - often called "mill and fill".

Bus pads are durable, flat surfaces where buses can stop to allow customers to get on and off. These pads are strategically placed along the curb at BRT stations and are constructed of materials like concrete to withstand the repeated stress of heavy buses stopping in the same place. Since regular asphalt is flexible, braking buses can create heat and force causing "washboarding" or wave shaped hills at bus stops. Bus pads prevent this from happening by providing designated spaces for buses so traffic flow remains more consistent, reducing congestion and enhancing road efficiency. Bus pads also contribute to customer safety by creating well-defined boarding areas, minimizing the risk of accidents, and streamlining the boarding process.

‘Mill and Fill’ is another roadway improvement technique that focuses on renewing the surface of existing roads by removing the top layer of deteriorated asphalt, known as milling, and replacing it with a fresh layer of asphalt. Milling not only eliminates cracks, potholes, and other forms of road wear but also ensures a smooth driving surface, significantly improving ride quality for all motorists. The mill and fill approach offers a cost-effective solution to rehabilitate roads, extending their lifespan and enhancing overall road safety. CDTA's contributions to roadway renewal helps extend the life of local roads and major intersections saving those communities money in annual repair and maintenance.

The BusPlus Purple Line will launch in late 2023. To view the latest construction photos, click here.