Raleigh City Council moves to ease bus traffic around Moore Square

The plan would expand a bus zone on Wilmington Street, between Hargett and Martin streets, to prevent buses from backing up along Wilmington Street.

The vote comes after business owners and residents in the Moore Square area met with city leaders last month to discuss problems with loitering, panhandling and bus congestion in the district.

The city said it also will move a stop for the R-Line away from the transit station to an area farther down Wilmington Street, south of Martin Street, to ease congestion.

The city is planning immediate upgrades to Moore Square Transit Station, including better pedestrian access, lighting and safety.

In a few months, the city also will begin another round of improvements that are part of a $3.5 million project approved by voters in last year’s $40 million transportation bond referendum. The project will increase bus capacity, widen passenger boarding platforms, improve restrooms, expand the information booth and enhance signs and displays.