Abstract
We consider personal rapid transit (PRT) as a sustainable transit system for Canberra. We discuss the advantages of PRT and show that is has all of the advantages and features of both car ownership and public transport, with added attractions of its own. The most appealing feature of PRT is its cost. Previous studies have shown PRT to be cheaper than most other public transport systems. We show that PRT would be remarkably cost effective for a city planned like Canberra, particularly if there were sufficient incentives to significantly cut car ownership, including enhancement of the current excellent bicycle network.
Highlights
The idea of personal rapid transit (PRT) systems has been around since at least 1953
This paper explores the veracity of implementing a PRT system in Canberra, Australia's compact, well-planned capital city
We have considered the implementation of a PRT system for Canberra, Australia’s capital city
Summary
The idea of personal rapid transit (PRT) systems has been around since at least 1953. A simple one-track system is being built at the new terminal 5 at London's Heathrow airport (British Airport Authority 2007) This system will initially transport passengers from the car park to the terminal with plans for expansion later. The main drawback with this particular system is that the maximum pod speed is only 40kph (Advanced Transport Systems Ltd 2007). This would probably not be acceptable in Canberra. This paper explores the veracity of implementing a PRT system in Canberra, Australia's compact, well-planned capital city. We take into consideration the current state of public transport in Canberra, the city's layout, population demography and the sustainable transport plans of the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) government. We come to the conclusion that Canberra is eminently suitable for implementation of a PRT system and vice versa
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