EFFECT OF WITH-FLOW BUS LANES ON BUS TRAVEL TIMES

Abstract

Improvements in bus performance due to introduction of reserved bus lanes have traditionally been evaluated in terms of savings in total travel time. Little attention is usually paid to changes in individual segment times (i.e., travel times between consecutive bus stops along the bus route). An approach is presented that investigates the effect of an urban reserved bus lane on bus travel time on individual segments. Subsequently, the change in segment time is related to characteristics and traffic regulations at respective segments. Data were obtained by analysis of videotapes recorded before and after the introduction of exclusive curb bus lanes on a major arterial road in downtown Toronto. The data indicate that time savings are most likely to occur on segments where buses previously experienced considerable congestion, as well as at traffic signals, especially when bus stops are arranged with one on the near side and the next on the far side of their respective intersections. However, these time savings generate additional ridership, resulting in longer dwell times at stops and a corresponding overall increase in total travel time. Thus, the perception of transit service improvement may have more impacts on ridership change than any substantive change in performance. The results of the study suggest opportunities for using reserved bus lanes on a more selective basis along a particular route and the need to reconsider whether taxis should be permitted to use these lanes.

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