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Schedule-free high-frequency transit operations

Author

Listed:
  • Gabriel E. Sánchez-Martínez
  • Nigel H. M. Wilson
  • Haris N. Koutsopoulos

Abstract

High-frequency transit systems are essential for the socioeconomic and environmental well-being of large and dense cities. The planning and control of their operations are important determinants of service quality. Although headway and optimization-based control strategies generally outperform schedule-adherence strategies, high-frequency operations are mostly planned with schedules, in part because operators must observe resource constraints (neglected by most control strategies) while planning and delivering service. This research develops a schedule-free paradigm for high-frequency transit operations, in which trip sequences and departure times are optimized in real-time, employing stop-skipping strategies and utilizing real-time information to maximize service quality while satisfying operator resource constraints. Following a discussion of possible methodological approaches, a simple methodology is applied to operate a simulated transit service without schedules. Results demonstrate the feasibility of the new paradigm.

Suggested Citation

  • Gabriel E. Sánchez-Martínez & Nigel H. M. Wilson & Haris N. Koutsopoulos, 2017. "Schedule-free high-frequency transit operations," Public Transport, Springer, vol. 9(1), pages 285-305, July.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:pubtra:v:9:y:2017:i:1:d:10.1007_s12469-016-0129-8
    DOI: 10.1007/s12469-016-0129-8
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    References listed on IDEAS

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