Optimization of transit total bus stop time models

Several factors influence bus transit reliability which includes bus stop conditions along the route, traffic conditions, route of travel and time of day. The overall transit bus reliability is generally affected by dwell time (DT), the fare payment method, the bus stop location, and the number of passengers alighting or boarding. A new variable is defined in this study, total bus stop time (TBST), which is the summation of DT and the time it takes a bus to effectively park at a bus stop and the re-entering the traffic stream. It is suggested that the overall bus transit reliability along routes could be improved if the TBST is minimized at bus stops.In this study, TBST models for bus stops located at mid-blocks and near intersections were developed based on multivariate regression analysis using ordinary least squares method. Data collection was conducted at 60 bus stops, 30 of which were near intersections and 30 at mid-blocks, in Washington DC during morning, mid-day and evening peak hours. The variables observed at each bus stop are as follows: number of passengers alighting or boarding, DT, TBST, bus stop type, bus pad, length number of lanes on approach to the bus stop, and permitted parking. Statistical inferences were based on 5% level of significance. From the results, it was inferred that the new variable, TBST, could potentially be used to improve scheduling and transit bus systems planning in a dense urban area.