Bus Stop Enhancement Program Logo

Program Framework

BSEP Typology

CTDOT has assigned every bus stop in the state a “type” to plan and prioritize appropriate levels of enhancement. Bus stop types are determined based on average daily boarding (ADB) thresholds unique to each service area. This results in a statewide framework that takes each service area’s varying levels of ridership into account.

Bus Stop Basic

 

 

Type 1: Bus stops with low ridership. 

Bus Stop Regular

 

 

Type 2: Bus stops with moderate ridership. 

Bus Stop Enhanced

 

 

Type 3:Bus stops with high ridership. 

Bus Stop Signature

 

 

Type 4: Bus stops with exceptional ridership. 

* Images adapted from Metro Hartford Rapid Routes and indicative of buildouts by BSEP Type


Available Enhancements by Bus Stop Type

All stop types include ADA compliant enhancements and either direct or indirect lighting. Stop types 2, 3, & 4 include either seating or shelter.
  • Type 1:
    • Sign post and sign
  • Type 2:
    • Sign post and sign
      • Sign post mounted seating
      • Sign post mounted solar lighting
    • Stand alone bench
  • Type 3:
    • Sign post and sign
    • Shelter
      • Shelter mounted bench
      • Shelter mounted solar lighting
    • Waste receptacle
  • Type 4:
    • Sign post and sign
    • Shelter
      • Shelter mounted bench
      • Shelter mounted solar lighting
      • Shelter mounted advertising case
      • Shelter mounted map case
      • Wind screens
      • Alternative wall panels
    • Real-time information sign
      • Text to speech buttons
    • Waste receptacle
      • Bottle deposit ring
    • Bike rack
    • Art wrap

Eligibility and Screening Criteria

Stops with five or more average daily boardings will be considered eligible for enhancement through BSEP. Eligibility is further determined by the BSEP phase specifics. Municipalities, Transit Districts, and Tribal entities are guided to submit the list of eligible stops and preferred enhancements for the current phase using the Stop Enhancement Application (SEA). Applications received by the Office of Transit & Ridesharing will be reviewed for technical feasibility. Stops that are determined feasible will then be submitted for environmental, historical, and cultural impacts review and permitting. Stops with no adverse impacts are then referenced for drafting of site design drawings and product purchase orders to be reviewed by all relevant stakeholders.

 

Timeline and Phasing

BSEP is being implemented by CTDOT through an overlapping phased approach. 

Pilot Installation: Summer-Fall 2025
Focus: Approximately 50 shelter installations across the state.

Phase 1: July 2025 – June 2029
Focus: Enhancement of all Type 4 bus stops, with priority toward unsheltered stops and expanding to replace existing shelters that are no longer in good repair. 

Phase 2: July 2026 – June 2029
Focus: Enhancement of Types 1, 2, and 3 bus stops, including specialty products (real time information signage, solar lighting products, and sign post mounted seating). 

Phase 3: July 2027 – June 2029
Focus: Community stewardship and art programs that will support the long-term maintenance of enhanced stops.

*Timelines are subject to change based on project developments.