An improved public transportation system for effective usage of vehicles in intelligent transportation system

Transportation is often the bane of urban societies. Traffic gridlocks and inadequate availability of a comprehensive and affordable public transportation system further accentuate the problem. This chapter focuses on the Singapore experience with intelligent transportation solutions to alleviate a range of problems, thus contributing to its positioning as a smart city. We focus on seven issues: public transportation using modern mass rapid transit trains; congestion control using electronic road pricing; electronic monitoring advisory systems to guide road users on adverse conditions or incidents on roads; computerized traffic signaling systems to streamline the throughput of vehicles in roadways; intelligent dispatch of taxis, which helps to minimize idle cruising time; parking guidance systems to alert motorists of the nearest car park, in the process decreasing the level of floating traffic on roads; and integrated ticketing systems to promote inter-modal transfer. A unique funding mechanism that has led to the evolution of a modern and efficient public transportation system is also elaborated. Being a city state and a living laboratory of intelligent transportation systems that have attracted international attention, it is suggested that there are some lessons to be drawn from the Singapore experience in managing transportation problems in smart cities.

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California Consumer Perceptions of Potential Intelligent Transportation System Innovations

Transportation Research Record Journal of the Transportation Research Board ◽

10.1177/0361198196153700105 ◽

1996 ◽

Vol 1537 (1) ◽

pp. 30-37

Author(s):

Constance D. Frayer ◽

Louise Kroot

Keyword(s):

Public Transportation ◽

Public Perception ◽

Intelligent Transportation System ◽

Intelligent Transportation ◽

Transportation System ◽

Transportation Systems ◽

The State ◽

Current State ◽

The People ◽

And Control

The purpose of the present research was to gain insight into the public perception of existing transportation options and to then explore consumers' needs and wants of those systems and the likely acceptance of possible intelligent transportation system (ITS) initiatives. The selected ITS concepts were based on nationally defined user needs for ITSs. Focus groups were selected as the means of gathering this primary research conducted throughout the state of California. Two perspectives were studied: statewide, to gain broad insights, and smart card specific, for focused insight. There was conspicuous agreement throughout the state as to the feelings about existing transportation systems. Californians are angry that they have not been consulted about their transportation system and that its current state does not reflect their wishes and does not meet their needs. Consumers are open to ITS concepts, including information systems, alternative fuel-powered vehicles, and other high-technology improvements. They support improvements in the automobile system and useful public transportation. Convenience, safety, freedom, flexibility, and control in planning and executing their travel are what they expect within an integrated transportation system. Much is written about the cost-effectiveness of buses. The reality is that the majority of the people will never use public transit in its current state. Electronic fare payment systems were seen as the ultimate in convenience for current users. Integrated fare systems were considered a tool for beginning the improvement of public transportation for existing users and for breaking down barriers of confusion and the lack of connectivity to attract new users.

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