Bussikaistoja

Bussikaistoja are road lanes reserved for buses to improve the speed and reliability of public transport. They are usually marked and may be operated 24/7 or only during peak hours. In some cases, other vehicles such as taxis or bicycles are allowed to use the lane under certain conditions, or during off-peak times. The exact rules depend on local regulations.

Most bus lanes are physically marked on the pavement and separated from general traffic by lines or barriers. Some systems employ bus priority at traffic signals, allowing buses to extend green signals or shorten red signals. In some corridors, bus stops are built directly into the lane, and platforms are designed to minimize dwell time.

Benefits include faster and more reliable bus service, which can attract riders and reduce car use. They can also improve overall traffic flow by organizing movements in congested corridors. Drawbacks can include reduced capacity for other road users, potential underuse if demand is low, and higher enforcement and maintenance costs, especially in winter.

Implementation requires corridor selection, demand analysis, and coordination with other transit and road projects. Evaluation often uses metrics such as travel time reliability, bus speeds, and rider satisfaction. Lanes must be maintained in winter and crowded conditions, and enforcement ensures compliance.

Bussikaistoja are common in many European cities and are a core element of bus rapid transit systems in some regions. In Nordic countries, including Finland, bus lanes are used to support efficient urban public transport and are adapted to local weather and street layouts.