Civil Engineering Reference
In-Depth Information
23.3.2 Transit Service Objectives
Transit service objectives should be established commensurate with the resources
that are made available. The basic service objectives include providing [
4
]:
High quality (convenient, comfortable, frequent, and reliable) network of transit
services for residents and visitors
Access to places of work, shopping, schools, and recreation. The amount of
service supply should reflect both ridership demand and available resources
Equitable and accessible services for the transit dependent
—
the elderly, the
physically disabled, the young, and low income persons
Expanded service to developing areas to capture emerging transit markets
Awell designed transit system should serve major population, employment, retail,
and medical centers. It should provide a simple, understandable route structure,
convenient, frequent and reliable service, as well as affordable fares. It should provide
coordinated transfers among bus and rapid transit lines. Where routes run, how well
they are operated, and how effectively they tap major markets will determine their
ability to retain existing riders and attract auto users to relieve traf
c congestion.
23.4 Transit Operational Improvements
Many bus and rail service improvements can be implemented quickly at low cost.
These short-range operational treatments address when, where, and how service
should be provided in relation to land development, street system, travel patterns
and
fiscal resources. They can improve operating speeds and operating ef
ciency,
improve service reliability, and retain/attract riders.
Service coverage can be expanded, service span and frequencies can be
increased, and route structures can be simpli
ed. Transit speeds can be increased by
reducing the number and duration of stops. Timing traf
c signals for transit,
implementing transit signal priorities and installing transit lanes can further improve
transit speeds and reliability.
Recommended practice and guidelines relating to transit improvements and their
congestion mitigation impacts follow. Congestion reducing effects of improved
transit will depend upon its ability to attract new riders
faster
than the growth in
new auto users.
23.4.1 Expanding Coverage
Most urban transit systems provide good coverage of the population in
“
transit
supportive
ces, shops, schools and multi-use develop-
ments are often located away from transit routes. While 80
”
areas. However, many of
90 % of an urban area
'
s
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