Choices between stairs, escalators and ramps in stations

Abstract

In assessing the design of a public transfer station, this paper describes how it is very important to be able to predict the routes that passengers take. Most simulation tools use very simple route choice models, which only take into account the shortest walking distance or walking time between a passenger’s origin and destination. In order to improve this type of route choice model, other factors affecting passenger route choice need to be identified. Also, the way these factors influence route choice behavior needs to be determined, indicating how each factor is valued. In this research, route choice data have been collected in two Dutch train stations by following passengers through the facility from their origins to their destinations. These data have been used to estimate extended route choice models. The focus in this contribution is on the influences of level changes in walking routes on passenger route choice behavior. It appears that the different ways of bridging level changes (ramps, stairs, escalators) each have a significant and different impact on the attractiveness of a route to the traveler.