A computer simulation analysis for optimizing bus stops spacing: The case of Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Abstract The aim of this research is to contribute to the development of public transport services for a heavily car-dependent society. The paper investigates, through a set of actual empirical data, an optimal structure to improve the bus system and contribute to the sustainable development of the city of Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The analysis is based on a computer FORTRAN program to simulate the optimum bus stop spacing based on the field-collected data. It concludes that many of the requirements of an adequate bus system might be provided by appropriate bus stops and that these should be incorporated as part of the bus priority measures in the City of Riyadh.