Abstract
In recent years, there has been rapid development in bicycle-sharing systems (BSS) in China. Moreover, such schemes are considered promising solutions to the first/last mile problem. This study investigates the mode choice behaviors of travelers for first/last mile trips before and after the introduction of bicycle-sharing systems. Travel choice models for first/last mile trips are determined using a multinomial logit model. It also analyzes the differences in choice behavior between the young and other age groups. The findings show that shared bicycles become the preferred mode, while travelers preferred walking before bicycle-sharing systems were implemented. Gender, bicycle availability, and travel frequency were the most significant factors before the implementation of bicycle-sharing systems. However, after implementation, access distance dramatically affects mode choices for first/last mile trips. When shared bicycles are available, the mode choices of middle-aged group depend mainly on gender and access distance. All factors are not significant for the young and aged groups. More than 80% of public transport travelers take walking and shared bicycles as feeder modes. The proposed models and findings contribute to a better understanding of travelers’ choice behaviors and to the development of solutions for the first/last mile problem.
Highlights
The first/last mile trips have been paid enough attention because of the important role they play in promoting public transport seamless connection with travel origins/destinations
The first/last mile problem that can be defined as the challenges caused by the built and social environment [1] and public transport service availability in the first/last leg of the trip generally exist in different worldwide cities
The findings show that bicycle sharing acts as a better substitute and complement for public transportation in North American cities, depending on the developing level of public transportation systems
Summary
The first/last mile trips have been paid enough attention because of the important role they play in promoting public transport seamless connection with travel origins/destinations. The first/last mile problem that can be defined as the challenges caused by the built and social environment [1] and public transport service availability in the first/last leg of the trip generally exist in different worldwide cities. Some countermeasures have been taken to solve this problem, such as improving the built environment and providing minibus services for those areas that regular bus services cannot reach, it is still an extensive issue. Because it is limited by physical conditions (such as road widths and a lack of bus terminals), transit agencies have difficulties in providing better feeder services for first/last mile trips. Especially nonmotorized transport systems [2], could be improved to complement the travel service in the hindered areas of public transport and thereby provide convenient transfers to public transportation
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