A MetroExtra bus. Photo courtesy DDOT.

Back in July BeyondDC reported WMATA’s draft plan (now adopted, with some changes) to upgrade two dozen regional bus lines with limited service, in the manner of the Georgia Avenue MetroExtra, the 30s line, and the famous Los Angeles Metro Rapid. By the end of 2009, MetroBus hopes to complete upgrades on the University Blvd/East-West Hwy line, the 16th Street line, the Leesburg Pike line, and the Veirs Mill Road line.

Work has already begun on planning the 16th Street line upgrades. Today, WMATA sent out a press release announcing that major planning for the Veirs Mill Road line will begin with two public meetings in late January. Planning will continue through Spring of 2009, and recommended improvements will be implemented mid-to-late 2009.

These restructurings are an excellent way to improve bus service to near-BRT (but not quite) standards on MetroBus’s busiest corridors, for very little cost. On a bang-for-your-buck standard, they are one of the most effective improvements the agency can make. Very much a “doing buses right” program.