Visualization of Transit Mobility and Performance

Abstract

The visualization of a transit mobility model is presented in this article. The method described shows transit system capacity and utilization by area and time of day using ride-check data as a proxy for real-time information. It indicates how public transportation resources can be used in a more efficient and effective manner.The visualization process requires the creation of a time/location data matrix of the variable to be analyzed and the linking of the performance measure to spatial data. This creates a temporal Geographic Information System (GIS) platform for the entire transit system or systems at the regional level. The GIS is “animated” to show snapshots of the system in sequence for the entire day. It serves as a powerful tool to evaluate bus route performance.The visual display of transit system utilization facilitates the assessment of where, when, and what type of resources should be allocated to maximize transit utilization at the lowest possible cost. It also can serve as a graphical tool to inform the public and policy-makers about transit system performance. Different demand markets for transit (rail, bus fixed-route, shuttles, community circulators, vanpools, etc.) can be appraised and the effectiveness of current transit in serving these markets can be visualized. The method can be used to show where service can be allocated, thus enhancing the mobility of transit systems.This article seeks to visualize the utilization of transit resources. Ideally, the mechanics of transportation system design and supply would be subject to continuous evaluation and refinement using an integrated scheme of automatic vehicle locators (AVLs), automatic passenger counters, and automated fare collection equipment. Currently, most transit agencies do not have this technology and rely instead on manual or semiautomated ride checks collected periodically. In lieu of real-time data, it is generally agreed that a ride check provides the most comprehensive set of data for operational and transit planning purposes. The methodology proposed in this article uses the ride check to visualize transit system performance by time of day and geographic area.