Mobility Nodes as an Extension of the Idea of Transfer Nodes—Solutions for Smaller Rail Stations with an Example from Poland

Abstract

This paper presents the idea of extending transfer nodes to mobility nodes as objects with more functions than just transport. Mobility hubs are often associated with large stations; however, they can be implemented at all or almost all stations. The main purpose of this study is (1) to show the potential of treating smaller railway stations as mobility hubs; (2) to formulate a methodology for classifying such nodes; and (3) to discuss the usefulness of the constructed methodology on a selected example. The method proposed here consists of five stages of identification and classification of mobility nodes and includes three categories and 10 criteria for assessing the level of service (LOS) at a selected station. The proposed method may be useful for evaluating mobility nodes and identifying those which require improvement. The presented concept can be used to formulate plans for the development of nodes. Broadly speaking, the proposed methodology could be useful for designing high LOS nodes from the first stages of planning.