Interstate 80/Powell Street Interchange Transit Access Improvements
Part of the Bay Bridge Forward commute initiative, the Interstate 80/Powell Street Interchange Transit Access Improvements project aims to improve traffic flow during morning peak commute hours for transit vehicles that enter and exit Interstate 80 through Powell Street.
Overview
The Interstate 80 (I-80)/Powell interchange currently services multiple transbay bus routes including Alameda-Contra Costa Transit District (AC Transit) lines and the Capital Corridor (Amtrak) connecting bus between Emeryville Station and San Francisco.
The existing transit route on the West Frontage Road and I-80 Powell Street loop on-ramp are highly congested during morning peak commute hours. This project is needed to improve vehicle flow and reliability for transit vehicles that enter and exit I-80 through Powell Street.
MTC – in partnership with Alameda County Transportation Commission, the City of Emeryville and AC Transit – is proposing transit facility improvements within the I-80 Powell Street interchange to:
- Improve transit reliability and travel time;
- Improve transit accessibility;
- Promote safety for transit riders; and
- Encourage transit use.
The improvements include:
- The construction of a dedicated transit lane on Powell Street;
- New bus stops with improved pedestrian and bicycle access; and
- Dedicated transit-only signals and detectors at the ramp intersections to facilitate transit priority.
Project Schedule
| Project Milestone | Estimated Completion Date |
|---|---|
| Preliminary Engineering & Environmental Studies | Completed July 2023 |
| Final Design | Summer 2026 |
| Construction | TBD |
Staff Contact
Pamela Kwan
Phone: 415-778-5378
Email: pkwan@bayareametro.gov