GRTC, Henrico alter route to expand airport service

Significantly expanded bus service to Richmond International Airport is coming, thanks to an adjustment made by Henrico County and Greater Richmond Transit Company officials.

As part of an an analysis of existing bus service in the county – and in conjunction with some route shifts that will be necessitated by the new Pulse rapid transit service that will begin in the region sometime next year – officials realized an opportunity to better serve the airport.

GRTC’s Route 56 South Laburnum service currently makes three trips to the airport. But the new Route 7 A/B Nine Mile Henrico service next year will increase service to the airport to twice an hour Monday through Friday between 6 a.m. and 7 p.m.

“GRTC is excited to partner with Henrico County and RIC on this service expansion, which will enable more of RIC’s workforce to conveniently and reliably reach their jobs at the airport,” said David Green, GRTC chief executive officer.

Route 7 recently was extended along Williamsburg Road, and an analysis found that some riders would walk from a stop there to the airport, Henrico Public Works Director Steve Yob told the Citizen. A consultant found that there was enough dead time on the route – during which a bus is sitting still because it has completed its route but can’t yet begin it again – to allow a trip to the airport.

“Without the county having to spend any more money, we could extend the existing route,” Yob said.

Henrico purchases its bus service from GRTC annually; it spends about $1.24 million on Route 7.

New bus stop signage and amenities, as well as the bus stop location, are currently being reviewed with RIC and Henrico County, and additional directional signage will be added inside and outside the terminal to guide passengers from the airport to the bus stop.

“The additional benefit of this Henrico County service enhancement is for the carry-on only traveler,” said Todd Eure, transportation development division director for Henrico’s Department of Public Works. “If you’re traveling light with up to two personal items, then you can fit on a GRTC bus, ride to RIC, and take off for national and international destinations.”

Approximately 2,500 employees are based at RIC.

“Richmond International Airport expects that improved GRTC bus service to the airport will not only provide benefits in terms of workforce access to a major employment center, but will also offer a consistent public transit option to travelers visiting the Richmond Region,” said airport spokesman Troy Bell.