Pittsburgh, August 10, 2025
News Summary
The University Line Bus Rapid Transit Project in Pittsburgh is entering its second phase, leading to significant traffic delays and road closures in the Oakland neighborhood. North Bouquet Street will be closed for reconstruction, while the Parkway East will also see closures, intensifying congestion. Travelers are advised to plan for detours, particularly on Forbes Avenue. The project, which has a total budget of $291 million, aims to enhance public transportation and urban infrastructure. Completion is expected to continue through late 2027 with future expansions planned.
Pittsburgh Prepares for Major Construction and Traffic Delays in Oakland Neighborhood
The second phase of the Pittsburgh Regional Transit’s (PRT) University Line Bus Rapid Transit Project is set to begin this weekend, leading to significant traffic disruptions in the Oakland neighborhood. Major road closures will affect local travel as the project enters its next stage.
North Bouquet Street will be completely closed from Fifth to O’Hara starting Saturday, with work ongoing until 6 a.m. on Monday for reconstruction and line painting. This closure is expected to create challenges for residents and commuters alike. Compounding these issues, the Parkway East will also be closed over the weekend, further escalating traffic congestion in the area.
Travelers should anticipate increased congestion on Forbes Avenue, which has been designated as a primary detour route. To facilitate transit, bus routes along Fifth and Forbes Avenue will continue to operate on schedule, and traffic flaggers will be present to help manage vehicle flow. Additional line painting on Forbes Avenue is planned to occur from Craft Avenue to Schenley Drive Extension from Monday through Friday between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m.
As construction progresses, Pittsburgh Regional Transit advises all commuters to leave early to account for potential delays and frustration associated with the ongoing disruptions.
Project Overview
The University Line Bus Rapid Transit Project represents a substantial investment in public transportation, with a total budget of approximately $291 million. Under a main contract worth $99.8 million, construction will include the addition of 18 new stations featuring amenities like fare-vending machines and real-time bus arrival displays. In addition, 39 intersections in the Oakland and Uptown neighborhoods will receive upgrades, including new ADA-compliant curb ramps and pedestrian countdown signals.
The enhancements to sidewalks, trees, and streetlights will also contribute to beautification and accessibility in the area. Construction on the University Line is projected to continue until late 2027 and will have a significant impact on various bus routes operating in the region.
Future Developments
Later this year, construction is anticipated to shift to Fifth Avenue, and additional work is slated to commence in early 2026. Upon completion, PRT plans to further extend transit services to Highland Park, Greenfield, and McKeesport as additional funding becomes available.
For more detailed information on the construction project and how it may affect traffic and travel patterns, upcoming public meetings will be held to address community concerns and provide updates.
Key Features of the University Line Project
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Budget | $291 million |
| Main Contract Value | $99.8 million |
| New Stations | 18 with modern amenities |
| Intersection Upgrades | 39 ADA-compliant upgrades |
| Project Duration | Anticipated through late 2027 |
| Future Extensions | To Highland Park, Greenfield, and McKeesport |
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main impacts of the University Line Project?
The project will close several key streets, causing traffic delays and detours throughout Oakland. Commuters should expect increased congestion, especially on Forbes Avenue, and plan for potential delays.
When is the construction expected to be completed?
Construction is anticipated to last until late 2027, with various phases and stages throughout the project timeline.
How can residents stay informed about construction updates?
Residents can attend upcoming public meetings scheduled to discuss the project and its impacts. Information will also be available through local announcements and community bulletin boards.
What improvements will be made to intersections?
The project will improve 39 intersections with ADA-compliant curb ramps and pedestrian countdown signals, enhancing accessibility for all individuals.
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Additional Resources
- CBS News: Pittsburgh Regional Transit Oakland Construction
- Wikipedia: Pittsburgh
- Union Progress: Work on Pittsburgh Regional Transit’s University Line
- Google Search: Pittsburgh Regional Transit University Line
- Post-Gazette: PRT Oakland University Line Construction Closures
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Pittsburgh Public Transit
- WTAE: Pittsburgh Regional Transit University Line Construction Project
- Google News: Pittsburgh Regional Transit
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PHOENIX STAFF WRITER The PHOENIX STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREPhoenix.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Phoenix, Maricopa County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Waste Management Phoenix Open, Cactus League Spring Training, and Arizona State Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce and Visit Phoenix, plus leading businesses in technology and healthcare that power the local economy such as Intel and Banner Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERETucson.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Arizona's dynamic landscape.
