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Article
University Traveler Value of Potential Real-Time Transit Information
World Transit Research
  • Ryan N. Fries
  • Anne E. Dunning
  • Mashrur A. Chowdhury
Document Type
Journal Article
Publication Date
1-1-2011
Keywords
  • intelligent transportation systems (ITS),
  • real-time transit information,
  • pasenger benefits,
  • traveller behaviour
Abstract

Intelligent transportation systems (ITS) have become common in public transit systems, particularly providing real-time transit information. For new implementations, it remains difficult to predict and quantify system and user benefits of technology implementation. Although previous studies have quantified the operational benefits of real-time transit traveler information systems, a gap in knowledge exists around passenger benefits of such systems. The objective of this research was to create a refined method for evaluating transit rider benefits from real-time traveler information and predict changes in traveler behavior. The study was conducted on a rural university campus, isolating the impacts of the system from the multiple influences that often affect transportation in larger metropolitan areas. This study uniquely integrated transit system performance, pedestrian travel times, and traffic simulation to determine travel times and predict mode split. Findings indicated that reducing passenger waiting anxiety was the most significant measure of traveler benefit from such a system. While the benefits found were specific to the study site, the methodology can be used for other transit systems evaluating real-time transit technology investments in rural or urban environments.

Rights
Permission to publish the abstract has been given by NCTR, copyright remains with them.
Citation Information
Fries, R.N., Dunning, A.E., & Chowdhury, M.A. (2011). University Traveler Value of Potential Real-Time Transit Information. Journal of Public Transportation, Vol. 14, (2), pp. 29-50.