Effects of Rationalization of Rural Passenger Services on Travel Activity Patterns

Abstract

One aspect of rationalization of rural passenger services in the state of New South Wales, Australia is examined: the travel and activity consequences for rural consumers of the substitution of longer-haul bus services for rail passenger services. Interview surveys of bus passengers in selected communities and town residents who previously used train services or presently use bus services were used to develop travel-activity profiles in the pre- and postrationalization period. The extent and nature of reorientation of travel-activity patterns were assessed to determine the effects of service substitution. Results indicate that most respondents were able to adjust their travel-activity patterns and benefit from the service substitution's greater number of travel choices, despite relatively low levels of mobility. The new bus services provide a higher level of service and are well patronized by respondents. Rural public transportation patronage in the study communities is now higher compared with that in the prerationalization period. Furthermore, no evidence was found of a link between rationalization and decline in services provision. The conclusion is drawn that new rural bus services have been overwhelmingly accepted and are well patronized in the study communities. They have also attracted many car users. Longer-haul bus services are now an integral part of the network of rural passenger services and of travel-activity patterns.

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