The RTC is making strides on the Maryland Parkway bus rapid transit project, enhancing public transport and infrastructure.
Las Vegas: The Maryland Parkway project is really taking off. It’s a $378 million overhaul that’s happening in several spots along the route.
Construction started back in August, covering a 12.5-mile stretch from Harry Reid International Airport, past UNLV, all the way to downtown and the Bonneville Transit Center.
They’re adding bus and bike lanes, wider sidewalks, and new bus shelters. Plus, they’ll have 60 electric buses running more often than the current service.
Back in 2019, they decided on this bus rapid transit option instead of a pricier light rail system that would’ve cost over a billion bucks.
So far, crews have been busy installing storm drains, waterlines, and other utilities, along with rebuilding curbs and sidewalks.
Speaking of bus shelters, the first of 44 new ones is going up this week on Maryland Parkway, just south of Oakey Boulevard. Four more are set to be installed by March.
David Swallow, the Deputy CEO of the RTC, mentioned that these new shelters will be much sturdier and provide better shade and lighting for everyone.
They’re also moving power lines underground near UNLV to encourage new development in the area.
That utility work should wrap up by April, and then they’ll start roadwork in that section.
Further south, between Russell Road and Tropicana, they’re prepping the road for the new bus line, including bus pads and station platforms.
They’re reinforcing the concrete in front of the bus shelters to handle the wear and tear from the big buses.
The project will add 7 miles of dedicated bus lanes, which will also double as bike lanes. They’ll have 15 electric buses that can hold up to 90 passengers each.
With these improvements, riders can expect their travel time to drop by about 20 percent.
They’re also updating traffic signals along the route as part of the project.
Unlike other projects in the area that have seen budget increases, Swallow is optimistic that this one will come in under budget.
They’re working on different sections at once to minimize disruption, focusing on one area before moving on to the next.
The RTC has coordinated with the Las Vegas Valley Water District to upgrade underground pipes, preventing future traffic interruptions.
Recently, work began on Carson Avenue, with one lane open in each direction, and nearby parking available for local businesses.
They kicked off the project in August, aiming for substantial completion by fall 2026.
Swallow noted, “There’s a whole lot of work going on along the corridor.”
For more info, you can reach out to Mick Akers at makers@reviewjournal.com or 702-387-2920. Follow @mickakers on X for updates.
