SamTrans moves into next phase of bus stop upgrades, prioritizing comfort and accessibility

The SamTrans Board of Directors has approved a key update to the agency’s Bus Stop Improvement Plan (BSIP), advancing efforts to make bus stops more comfortable, accessible and welcoming for riders across San Mateo County. The action, approved during the Board’s February meeting, refreshes the design of bus stop amenities and moves the project into its next phase of implementation. 

For many riders, a bus stop is the first and last part of their transit journey. BSIP was created to ensure stops throughout the system provide consistent, functional amenities that improve safety, comfort and the overall customer experience. 

What is the Bus Stop Improvement Plan? 

Originally adopted in May 2024, BSIP established systemwide Bus Stop Design Guidelines and created a framework for improving amenities at all SamTrans bus stops. The plan evaluated stops across the network and prioritized upgrades based on factors such as ridership, accessibility needs and surrounding community conditions. 

The BSIP outlines which stops should receive features such as: 

• Shelters for weather protection 
• Real-time arrival information 
• Seating for rider comfort 
• Lighting to enhance visibility and safety 
• Additional amenities designed to improve accessibility and usability 

The plan was shaped through a robust community and stakeholder engagement process, ensuring feedback from riders, local jurisdictions and community partners helped inform decisions. 

While the original BSIP determined what amenities should be installed and where, it did not yet address the specific designs of those amenities. The newly approved update fills that gap by introducing refreshed designs, including new options such as a narrow shelter and shade structure that can better fit locations with limited space. 

What happens next? 

With recent Board adoption, the project now moves into implementation and coordination. 

Next steps include: 

• Updating the Bus Stop Design Guidelines to reflect the adopted designs 
• Sharing the new amenity designs with internal teams and external stakeholders such as cities and partners 
• Using the approved designs for ongoing BSIP implementation and future amenity replacement projects 
• Refining cost estimates for each type of bus stop based on selected amenities 
• Continuing to seek external funding and partnership opportunities 

Ongoing improvements for the community 

Work on the Bus Stop Improvement Plan will continue as SamTrans installs upgraded amenities throughout the service area. Over time, riders and community members can expect to see more consistent, modern and accessible bus stops designed to better support daily travel needs. 

By standardizing designs and prioritizing improvements where they are needed most, the BSIP represents a long-term investment in the rider experience and in creating more welcoming transit spaces across the region.