TULSA -- The city of Tulsa is asking for input on a project that could connect Tulsa communities more than ever.
The Peoria Bus Rapid Transit, or BRT, will almost be like a railway that runs from North Tulsa all the way to 81st and Lewis.
It's designed to cater to folks who live and work along the street, concerning for some, good news for others.
"I'll tell you, it beats walking. I mean I can walk a good distance, but you can't walk everywhere," said bus rider Andre Ramsey.
Ramsey hops on bus route 105 on Peoria Avenue nearly every day.
He's got the 30-minute arrival times down to a science and he says he's rarely late for anything.
"Usually the buses get you where you need to be. And that's a good thing, especially when you're without transportation," said Ramsey.
Drivers can let traffic lights know they're coming, giving them "traffic signal priority" on the city's busiest route.
Planners say they'll be able to increase stops to every 15 minutes.
Bus stops will also feature real-time arrival screens, and it's all part of the city's 2010 Tulsa comprehensive plan.
"This will get us from one end of the city to the other more frequently and quicker," said City Planner Jennifer Gates.
So far, the response has been mixed on our Facebook page. Mike writes, 'And they will do this where on a tiny 2 line street?'
Andy says 'Seems like an unfair, government sponsored business advantage to peoria businesses.'
City planners say these are exactly the type of concerns they're now looking for.
"What we're looking at is holding these workshops in different areas that make is more accessible to those areas that maybe have their interests," said Gates.
With the BRT, Tulsa hopes to boost all of Peoria economically and get more residents jumping on the bus with Ramsey.
"It's a good experience. I think more people need to catch the bus and enjoy the experience I guess!" said Ramsey.
The first community workshops for the bus rapid transit will be July 26th at the Spirit Life Church, and at the Central Center at Centennial Park.
A north Tulsa walkshop will be held July 27th at Morton Comprehensive Health Services.
"Walkshops" will be held on Wednesday, July 27th to give residents guided, interactive tours to observe the physical conditions and identify issues and opportunities for improvements. Locations will be:
S. Peoria and 61st Street: 9 - 10 a.m.
S. Peoria and 11th Street: 11 a.m. - 12 p.m.
N. Peoria and Pine Street: 3 - 4 p.m.
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