In a world where the gig economy is taking over and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are becoming increasingly popular, researchers at Concordia University are proposing a new approach to public transit for suburban commuters – On-demand transit (ODT). This innovative system, outlined in a paper published in the journal Transportation Research Record, aims to replace traditional bus routes with a fleet of passenger vans that respond to rider requests made through smart devices at existing bus stops.
According to co-lead author Seyed Mehdi Meshkani, ODT offers several advantages over traditional fixed bus routes. From the passenger’s perspective, it provides increased flexibility, shorter wait times, and overall reduced travel time. Rather than making frequent stops, the vehicle simply collects passengers at requested stops and transports them directly to the nearest public transit hub. Additionally, transit agencies stand to benefit from ODT as it significantly reduces capital and operating costs, as well as lowers greenhouse gas emissions.
The researchers used the town of Terrebonne, Quebec, as a model for their ODT system. This suburban community, located on the North Shore of the St. Lawrence River, is serviced by a commuter rail line and bus system connecting it to larger suburbs and Montreal. By implementing smart devices at existing bus stops linked to a dispatch algorithm, passengers can request rides which are then matched based on various factors such as wait time and proximity. The use of passenger vans in the ODT system proves to be more cost-effective than traditional city buses, requiring less fuel, training, and maintenance.
The comparison analysis carried out by the researchers revealed that ODT could potentially reduce total travel time by up to 36% and detour time by 41% compared to existing bus-based services. Unlike the dynamic pricing model used by ride-sharing services, the cost per trip with ODT remains fixed. This fixed pricing structure ensures that passengers can accurately budget for their commute without worrying about price fluctuations.
As the transportation landscape continues to evolve with the rise of the gig economy, it is crucial for public transit systems to adapt to changing user needs. On-demand transit presents a viable solution to the inefficiencies of traditional bus routes, offering passengers increased flexibility, shorter travel times, and cost savings for transit agencies. With further research and implementation, ODT could become the future of public transportation, revolutionizing the way we commute in suburban and exurban areas.
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