IMPROVING INTERBUS TRANSFER WITH AUTOMATIC VEHICLE LOCATION

One of the most consistent public frustrations with bus systems is their perceived, and frequently actual, lack of schedule reliability. Those who have been late for work or an important appointment or have stood out in the rain or snow are unlikely to be repeat transit users. For travelers who must transfer between buses the potential for missing a connection becomes a major point of concern. While annoying to any passenger, a missed connection can be critical for a disabled passenger, especially in adverse weather conditions. Yet in the best of systems, schedule adherence is difficult given traffic, road construction, or unexpected problems with vehicle maintenance. When the required transfers are between different types of travel modes or different types of transportation services, a precise transfer becomes even more difficult. One promising approach to facilitating the critical transfer is the use of Automatic Vehicle Locator Systems (AVL). The current study will contribute to the discussion regarding applicability of AVL, specifically Global Positioning Systems (GPS), by addressing the following: 1. the application of AVL to a smaller transit operation than is usually studied ; 2. the potential for using AVL to effect transfers between fixed-route and paratransit vehicles; 3. the modifications required to adapt AVL for paratransit in rural areas.