A heuristic model is presented for the design of bus transit networks with coordinated operations. Different from past solution methodologies focusing on conventional uncoordinated transit systems, this model addresses the design of transit networks with coordinated operations, using a transit center concept and incorporating a trip assignment model explicitly developed for coordinated (timed-transfer) systems. In addition, this model determines the appropriate vehicle size for each bus route and incorporates demand-responsive capabilities to meet demand that cannot be served effectely by fixed-route, fixed-schedule services. This model is composed of four major procedures: ( a) a route generation procedure (RGP), which constructs the transit network around the transit center concept; ( b) a network analysis procedure, which incorporates a trip assignment model (for both coordinated and uncoordinated operations) and a frequency-setting and vehicle-sizing procedure; ( c) a transit center selection procedure, which identifies the suitable transit centers for route coordination; and ( d) a network improvement procedure, which improves on the set of routes generated by the RGP. The model is demonstrated via a case-study application to data generated from the existing transit system in Austin, Texas.
WALKING FEEDER MODE SERVICES CHOICE ANALYSIS FOR INTEGRATION OF BUS RAPID TRANSIT SYSTEM: A CASE STUDY
