The Madison Bus Rapid Transit system officially started with a new route and “bus only” lanes during heavy rain.The red painted bus only lanes have been around for awhile, but as Madison Metro’s new busy system debuts,

MADISON (WKOW) -- Madison's new Bus Rapid Transit system, or BRT, officially launched on Sunday. "The last seven years we've really been working hard to implement it," said City of Madison Transportation Director Tom Lynch. "Today's the day. Today, we get to actually bring the next level of transit to Madison."

The City of Madison invited city residents to an open house for the new Bus Rapid Transit line Tuesday. The event offered residents the opportunity to tour the new stations and buses, including demonstrations of updated bus features.

The BRT system started on Sunday with a new route, larger buses and dedicated “bus only” lanes. It also includes a new fare system.