HB 1711

Abstract

Amends the Illinois Vehicle Code. Defines "bus rapid transit vehicle" as a bus specifically authorized by the Department of Transportation to be operated upon highways and shoulders for bus rapid transit. Adds bus rapid transit vehicles to the list of vehicles exempted from prohibitions against driving on the shoulder. Creates the Bus Rapid Transit Pilot Program. Provides that commencing January 1, 2011, the Department, in cooperation with the Regional Transportation Authority and the Illinois State Police, shall establish a 5-year pilot program within the boundaries of the Regional Transportation Authority for bus rapid transit on highways and shoulders. Provides that the Department may adopt rules as necessary to implement the bus rapid transit pilot program, and that the Department shall present to the General Assembly a report on the effectiveness of bus rapid transit at the conclusion of the 5-year pilot program.