Shuttle bus stops, although relatively simple and inexpensive to implement within an existing or future site design, provide a number of benefits which may be realized both on an individual site level and throughout the installation as a whole. The use of mass transportation is a proven method to minimize parking requirements. Impermeable asphalt and concrete parking areas are significant contributing factors to stormwater runoff which can lead to erosion and cause flooding. As impermeable surface area is reduced by limiting parking requirements through promotion of shuttle buses, the required stormwater mitigation methods and related expenses may also be minimized.
 

Providing shuttle bus routes can also reduce fuel consumption and therefore the installation’s carbon footprint by reducing the number of automobiles used on a daily basis. As greenhouse gas restrictions become more stringent we will undoubtedly need methods to reduce each Air Force installation’s carbon footprint in an effort to allow mission related activities (i.e. aircraft flight) to continue unimpeded. In addition to the environmental, financial and mission related benefits mentioned above; mass transportation also reduces traffic congestion.

Figure 1: Bus Shuttle Stop at Schriever AFB

Figure 2. Transit routes should be designed with consideration of primary users and destinations

Bus stops are a potential method to achieve the intent of LEED SS Credit 4.1. Refer to the LEED Guidance section for specific requirements