13 Transit Projects Expected to Open Across the U.S. in 2026

Cities across the United States are continuing to expand public transportation networks, with a growing emphasis on cost-effective bus rapid transit and arterial rapid transit systems over traditional light rail.

According to data from The Transport Politic, more than 160 miles of new rail, bus, and other fixed-guideway transit lines opened nationwide in 2025. An additional 94 miles are projected to come online in 2026, reflecting a steady but more targeted approach to transit investment.

Urban Institute researcher Yonah Freemark notes that many cities are shifting away from light rail because of its high construction and maintenance costs. Instead, local governments are favoring bus rapid transit systems, which typically use dedicated lanes, and arterial rapid transit routes that operate in existing traffic lanes with tools like bus signal priority. These options offer greater flexibility and faster deployment while still improving transit reliability and access.

Major U.S. transit projects expected to open in 2026 include a 3.1-mile bus rapid transit line connecting downtown Atlanta to the Atlanta BeltLine, a 9.3-mile arterial rapid transit corridor in Baton Rouge linking the north and south sides of the city, and a 0.7-mile streetcar extension in Kansas City to Berkeley Riverfront Park. Orange County, California, is also set to open a new 4-mile streetcar line between Santa Ana and Garden Grove, while Seattle plans to launch a 7.5-mile light rail extension connecting two existing lines across Lake Washington.

While rail expansion in the U.S. has slowed compared to previous decades, Canadian cities such as Montreal, Ottawa, and Toronto continue to advance multiple light rail projects at a rapid pace. Freemark notes that this contrast highlights differing national approaches to transit investment, with U.S. cities prioritizing affordability and scalability.

Together, these projects signal a continued evolution in how cities pursue transit improvements, balancing cost, speed, and long-term mobility needs.

Read More: 13 transit projects expected to open in the US this year