Staff shortages of drivers and mechanics will impact nine GRTC route schedules in December. The public schedule for those changes hasn’t yet been released, but will be posted online.

The Pulse runs East-West from Willow Lawn to Rocketts Landing. | Photo by RICtoday

How does this impact riders?

The cuts will impact the Pulse, which debuted in 2018 with 14 stops from Willow Lawn to Rocketts Landing. According to the Richmond Times-Dispatch, route times are expected to move to 15-30 minutes during peak hours, instead of its usual 10 minutes.

Routes 4A, 4B, 5, 20, 76, 77, 78, and 88 will also back up times to 30 minutes to an hour.

Bus fare for all services will remain free through June 2022.

Pro tip: GRTC will run on a regular schedule with no express service on Veterans Day, Thurs., Nov. 11. They will operate under a Sunday schedule on Thanksgiving.

How would bus route changes impact drivers?

You may notice there are extra stop lights through parts of Downtown, Scott’s Addition + the Arts District. They use white lines instead of the usual red, yellow, and green + are designed specifically for buses to move quickly and easily through traffic.

These Pulse bus lanes will soon be painted red, following a Richmond City Council decision back in April.

Are there pedestrian impacts?

GRTC also announced construction will soon begin on 9th St. bay changes and shelter removals. The Public Safety Building is set to be demolished, and GRTC will not be able to use existing bays at the work zone.

Shelters, benches, and trash cans between Clay and Leigh St. will be taken out, and bay locations and assignments will change. Temporary bay locations + seating will be announced as work progresses.

Get a job at GRTC

Applications are open for both bus operators + mechanics, with $5,000 and $8,500 bonuses. Those interested in driving only need a Virginia State license, GRTC will help you get a CDL. There are also openings in management, human resources and marketing.

Learn more about upcoming GRTC bus activity and updates here.

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