City officials cut the ribbon on the new Huntsville Transit Center. And, somehow, that seemed most appropriate.
The state-of-the-art facility, located at 521 Pratt Ave. NW, lacks for nothing and commands attention at its downtown site with the winged architectural design that makes possible a rain garden that runs through the center of the 14 bus bays through the platform to offer a serene setting for riders.
It is, as Director of Parking & Public Transit Quisha Bryant said, a “transformative” center. And to check it out, all fares have been waived for the month of September.
And here are five things you need to know about the transit center:
It’s a lot bigger
With 14 bus bays each 45 feet in length, the new facility is much larger than the former facility off Church Street. It provides capacity for all buses at all times, an improvement over the former site, and has space for future expansion of bus services.
It’s ADA compliant
The center considered the needs of all riders in its design. That includes more spacious platforms with improved maneuverability for wheelchair riders. The display monitors with real-time information on departures and arrivals are large and include accompanying audio announcements. There are also braille readers at each bay.
More a park than ‘bus station’
As the buses come and go, the rain garden provides a relaxing backdrop for the hustle and bustle of people going about their busy days. The sloped roof funnels water into the garden, providing a more peaceful environment while also watering the greenery. The park benches that line the garden only add to the ambience.
Safe & secure
In addition to efficiency for customers and room for buses, safety remained a priority in planning the transit center. More than 40 security cameras are mounted throughout the facility and a platform security office is located in the middle of the platform. A security fence wraps around the site and ample lighting not only spotlights the center at night but provides a blanket of security as well.
Passenger amenities
If you have ridden City buses in the past, you won’t recognize the experience at the new transit center. The monitors are similar to video displays in airports and the ticket counter is conveniently located in the indoor waiting area – which is much larger than before and provides a more comfortable environment. A display screen is located in the indoor waiting area and vending machines are also available.
