Public Transport: Most Popular Articles
These articles are the most popular over the last month.
How Much Does A Bus Cost?
This article describes how much it costs transit agencies to purchase and then operate a bus in daily service.
This article describes how much it costs transit agencies to purchase and then operate a bus in daily service.
How Safe Is Transit?
This article assesses the safety of transit, and concludes it is much safer to take transit than it is to drive or ride a bicycle despite the high profile transit fatalities that occurred as a result of the London terrorist bombings in 2005 and the Metrolink commuter train crash in Los Angeles in 2008. It ends by describing new safety procedures that have been put in place since the above incidents that have increased transit safety.
This article assesses the safety of transit, and concludes it is much safer to take transit than it is to drive or ride a bicycle despite the high profile transit fatalities that occurred as a result of the London terrorist bombings in 2005 and the Metrolink commuter train crash in Los Angeles in 2008. It ends by describing new safety procedures that have been put in place since the above incidents that have increased transit safety.
Why Don't Buses Have Seatbelts?
This article examines why buses are not required to have seatbelts and concludes that it is for two main reasons - cost and the fact that adding seatbelts is unlikely to make travel by bus, already the safest mode of travel, even safer.
This article examines why buses are not required to have seatbelts and concludes that it is for two main reasons - cost and the fact that adding seatbelts is unlikely to make travel by bus, already the safest mode of travel, even safer.
Cost of Rail Transit Projects
This article examines the capital costs of recent rail transit projects in the United States and Canada and describes some factors that help to explain the differences in costs.
This article examines the capital costs of recent rail transit projects in the United States and Canada and describes some factors that help to explain the differences in costs.
Electric Buses
This article describes everything you would like to know about electric buses - how they work, how much they cost, the advantages and disadvantages of using them, and the prognosis for their future usage.
This article describes everything you would like to know about electric buses - how they work, how much they cost, the advantages and disadvantages of using them, and the prognosis for their future usage.
Two Methods of Subway Construction
This article describes the two basic methods of building a subway.
This article describes the two basic methods of building a subway.
The Basics of Transit Funding
After defining the difference between operating and capital funding, this article describes the different ways of financially supporting transit, including farebox revenues and revenues from sales, gas, property, and income taxes. Next, the article talks about transit support at the local, state, and federal level and refers to the New Starts Program, the JARC program, and transit funding in California and New York. Local funding is then discussed, including innovative local transit funding programs such as Los Angeles's Measure R and America Fast Forward.
After defining the difference between operating and capital funding, this article describes the different ways of financially supporting transit, including farebox revenues and revenues from sales, gas, property, and income taxes. Next, the article talks about transit support at the local, state, and federal level and refers to the New Starts Program, the JARC program, and transit funding in California and New York. Local funding is then discussed, including innovative local transit funding programs such as Los Angeles's Measure R and America Fast Forward.
Hastus By GIRO
This article provides a brief overview of the scheduling software used in the public transit industry and then focuses on Hastus by GIRO, and includes what kind of prices you are likely to pay for Hastus. It then finishes with a short discussion of what the future is likely to hold for scheduling software packages.
This article provides a brief overview of the scheduling software used in the public transit industry and then focuses on Hastus by GIRO, and includes what kind of prices you are likely to pay for Hastus. It then finishes with a short discussion of what the future is likely to hold for scheduling software packages.
Rail Transit and Property Values
A summary of the effect that rail transit has on property values.
A summary of the effect that rail transit has on property values.
Designing Bus Routes and Schedules Part V
The fifth in a series of five articles giving a brief overview of how bus routes and schedules get designed.
The fifth in a series of five articles giving a brief overview of how bus routes and schedules get designed.
What Happens to Old Buses?
This article describes what happens to buses when their useful life is over.
This article describes what happens to buses when their useful life is over.
Designing Bus Routes and Schedules Part I
This article describes the steps to follow in determining the initial placement of a new bus route.
This article describes the steps to follow in determining the initial placement of a new bus route.
How Do Transit Agencies Decide on What Buses to Purchase, Part 2: Propulsion System
This is the second in a series or article examine how transit agencies decide on what kind of bus to purchase. This entry describes how transit agencies determine what kind of propulsion system to buy.
This is the second in a series or article examine how transit agencies decide on what kind of bus to purchase. This entry describes how transit agencies determine what kind of propulsion system to buy.
Costs Between Bus and Light Rail
This article examines the operating cost differences between bus and light rail and concludes that the data show that buses are considerably cheaper to operate than light rail vehicles.
This article examines the operating cost differences between bus and light rail and concludes that the data show that buses are considerably cheaper to operate than light rail vehicles.
Designing Bus Routes and Schedules Part III
This installment describes how times for the bus are calculated, and how time points are determined.
This installment describes how times for the bus are calculated, and how time points are determined.
Designing Bus Routes and Schedules Part IV
The fourth part of the series in which I describe how bus routes and schedules get designed.
The fourth part of the series in which I describe how bus routes and schedules get designed.
How Long Do Buses Last?
This article discusses how long transit buses and other vehicles are expected to last in the United States and other countries.
This article discusses how long transit buses and other vehicles are expected to last in the United States and other countries.
APC Systems: How Do They Work?
Automated Passenger Counting (APC) systems are revolutionizing the transit industry by providing much more information about ridership and on-time performance than has historically been available. Read about how they work here.
Automated Passenger Counting (APC) systems are revolutionizing the transit industry by providing much more information about ridership and on-time performance than has historically been available. Read about how they work here.
Transit Funding Defined
This article describes the difference between transit capital and operating funding.
This article describes the difference between transit capital and operating funding.
How Bus Routes and Schedules Get Planned
This article provides an overview of how bus routes and schedules get planned. It includes discussion of the following: long range planning, grant applications, and short-range route and schedule planning.
This article provides an overview of how bus routes and schedules get planned. It includes discussion of the following: long range planning, grant applications, and short-range route and schedule planning.
Education of Bus Drivers
This article goes over how to become and stay a bus driver, from the initial testing to continuing education.
This article goes over how to become and stay a bus driver, from the initial testing to continuing education.
Overview of BRT versus light rail
This article provides an overview of the debate between whether light rail or bus rapid transit will/should be built in a particular corridor.
This article provides an overview of the debate between whether light rail or bus rapid transit will/should be built in a particular corridor.
Review of Sustainable Transp
This is a review of Sustainable Transportation: Problems and Solutions by William Black.
This is a review of Sustainable Transportation: Problems and Solutions by William Black.
How Do I Become a Transit Planner or Bus Scheduler?
This article describes two ways in which you can land a transit planning or bus scheduling job.
This article describes two ways in which you can land a transit planning or bus scheduling job.
How Do Transit Agencies Decide on What Buses to Purchase, Part 1: Bus Size
This is the first in a series or article examine how transit agencies decide on what kind of bus to purchase. This entry describes how transit agencies determine what size of bus to buy.
This is the first in a series or article examine how transit agencies decide on what kind of bus to purchase. This entry describes how transit agencies determine what size of bus to buy.
Profile of Texas HSR
Texas is one of several states hoping to construct a high speed rail line. Proposed Route Texas's high
Texas is one of several states hoping to construct a high speed rail line. Proposed Route Texas's high
Transit 101: Extra Board Operators
This article describes extra board operators. Extra board operators fill in for regular bus drivers when the regular drivers are sick or on vacation.
This article describes extra board operators. Extra board operators fill in for regular bus drivers when the regular drivers are sick or on vacation.
Designing Bus Routes and Schedules Part II
Designing Bus Routes and Schedules This article is the second in a series of articles about how bus routes
Designing Bus Routes and Schedules This article is the second in a series of articles about how bus routes
Transit Software: ArcView
A quick overview of ESRI's Arc GIS products and how they are used in the public transit industry.
A quick overview of ESRI's Arc GIS products and how they are used in the public transit industry.
Five Ways to Improve Transit Passenger Security
This article describes five ways that transit systems can improve passenger security: install security cameras, improve lighting at stops and stations, initiate a request stop program, make real time schedule information available on phones, and employ CPTED (crime prevention through environmental design) principles.
This article describes five ways that transit systems can improve passenger security: install security cameras, improve lighting at stops and stations, initiate a request stop program, make real time schedule information available on phones, and employ CPTED (crime prevention through environmental design) principles.
California High Speed Rail
This article profiles the California High Speed Rail Project, including the route, cost, annual ridership, and outlook.
This article profiles the California High Speed Rail Project, including the route, cost, annual ridership, and outlook.
Do Transit Riders Get Sick?
This article examines if people who ride public transit get sick more than other people, and concludes that there is insufficient evidence to answer this question.
This article examines if people who ride public transit get sick more than other people, and concludes that there is insufficient evidence to answer this question.
Contracting Out: Overview
This article describes the two possible ways that transit authorities could contract out to private operators - just contract out operations or contract out planning and operations - and the advantages and disadvantages of each in comparison with public sector operation.
This article describes the two possible ways that transit authorities could contract out to private operators - just contract out operations or contract out planning and operations - and the advantages and disadvantages of each in comparison with public sector operation.
Prog of Writing a Sch Part I
This is the first of a series of articles describing more specifically the steps of writing schedules in Hastus and other scheduling software programs.
This is the first of a series of articles describing more specifically the steps of writing schedules in Hastus and other scheduling software programs.
Transit 101: The Load Factor
This article advocates for a new lower load factor standard for low floor transit vehicles. It also advocated for a lower load factor when buses operate less frequently, because the negative effect of being passed up is obviously greater when the wait for the next bus is longer.
This article advocates for a new lower load factor standard for low floor transit vehicles. It also advocated for a lower load factor when buses operate less frequently, because the negative effect of being passed up is obviously greater when the wait for the next bus is longer.
Transit Capacity
This article describes the relative capacities of different modes of transit. Cities are cautioned against building rapid transit lines with either too much capacity - since it wastes money - or too little capacity - since a day will come when the line is saturated with passengers and cannot add any more.
This article describes the relative capacities of different modes of transit. Cities are cautioned against building rapid transit lines with either too much capacity - since it wastes money - or too little capacity - since a day will come when the line is saturated with passengers and cannot add any more.
Anatomy of a Perfect Bus Stop
An article which describe the aspects of a perfect bus stop.
An article which describe the aspects of a perfect bus stop.
Transit in Sydney, Australia
This article describes transit in Sydney, Australia and lessons that North American transit operators can learn from Sydney.
This article describes transit in Sydney, Australia and lessons that North American transit operators can learn from Sydney.
Review of MTRAM
A review of MTRAM, the scheduling software solution created by Italy's M.A.I.O.R. corporation.
A review of MTRAM, the scheduling software solution created by Italy's M.A.I.O.R. corporation.
Marketing of System I: The Name
This article examines the importance of the name to a transit system's identity, and goes through a list of good and bad transit agency names and what makes each one good or bad. Finally, it suggests setting up an outlet through which transit agencies can see branded product.
This article examines the importance of the name to a transit system's identity, and goes through a list of good and bad transit agency names and what makes each one good or bad. Finally, it suggests setting up an outlet through which transit agencies can see branded product.
New York State Public Transit Funding
This is a quick overview of New York Public Transit Funding, and includes detailed information about state and local sources of transit revenue and outlays of transit revenue. An analysis of the future of California public transit funding is also presented. This article also includes an off-site link for more information.
This is a quick overview of New York Public Transit Funding, and includes detailed information about state and local sources of transit revenue and outlays of transit revenue. An analysis of the future of California public transit funding is also presented. This article also includes an off-site link for more information.
Park and Ride Lots
An article about park and ride lots that describes their need, the last mile problem, proper placement, transit oriented development, and whether we should charge for parking.
An article about park and ride lots that describes their need, the last mile problem, proper placement, transit oriented development, and whether we should charge for parking.
How Do Bus Drivers Pick Runs?
This article describes how bus drivers pick what routes they drive and how the way in which they pick their routes helps us improve our transit system.
This article describes how bus drivers pick what routes they drive and how the way in which they pick their routes helps us improve our transit system.
California Public Transit Funding
This is a quick overview of California Public Transit Funding, and includes detailed information about state and local sources of transit revenue and outlays of transit revenue. An analysis of the future of California public transit funding is also presented. This article also includes an off-site link for more information.
This is a quick overview of California Public Transit Funding, and includes detailed information about state and local sources of transit revenue and outlays of transit revenue. An analysis of the future of California public transit funding is also presented. This article also includes an off-site link for more information.
Bus Rapid Transit
A definition of Bus Rapid Transit
A definition of Bus Rapid Transit
AVL - How It Works
This article described how AVL (automatic vehicle location) works and how it is used in the transit industry.
This article described how AVL (automatic vehicle location) works and how it is used in the transit industry.
Vancouver Articulated Trolley 1
This gallery contains images of buses and transit from places in British Columbia. Currently featured are the buses, trolley buses, and Skytrain operated by Vancouver Translink.
This gallery contains images of buses and transit from places in British Columbia. Currently featured are the buses, trolley buses, and Skytrain operated by Vancouver Translink.
Six Tips to Promote Your Transit System
These are six basic tips to keep in mind while marketing your public transportation system.
These are six basic tips to keep in mind while marketing your public transportation system.
The Charter Rule
This article described under what circumstances public transit agencies are allowed to provide charter bus services.
This article described under what circumstances public transit agencies are allowed to provide charter bus services.
Gondola Lifts and Aerial Trams
This article examines how gondola lifts and aerial trams, usually found only in ski resort settings, are used more broadly for public transportation.
This article examines how gondola lifts and aerial trams, usually found only in ski resort settings, are used more broadly for public transportation.
Five Top Employment Issues
This list describes the five top employment issues in the transit industry. They are: absenteeism, workers compensation, interactions between drivers and passengers, split shifts, and employee breaks.
This list describes the five top employment issues in the transit industry. They are: absenteeism, workers compensation, interactions between drivers and passengers, split shifts, and employee breaks.
Discrediting HSR Opponents
This article discredits three major arguments against high speed rail - that we don't need it now (we're going to need it in the future); that it's too expensive (the cost is reasonable); and that the first segment is going from nowhere to nowhere (it's the first incomplete step - you have to start somewhere).
This article discredits three major arguments against high speed rail - that we don't need it now (we're going to need it in the future); that it's too expensive (the cost is reasonable); and that the first segment is going from nowhere to nowhere (it's the first incomplete step - you have to start somewhere).
TTC Overview
An overview of the Toronto Transit Commission, including information about the network, funding, and projects.
An overview of the Toronto Transit Commission, including information about the network, funding, and projects.
How Transit Agencies Decide on What Buses to Purchase, Part 3
This is the third in a series or article examine how transit agencies decide on what kind of bus to purchase. This entry describes how transit agencies determine whether to buy high or low floor buses, and what manufacturer to buy from.
This is the third in a series or article examine how transit agencies decide on what kind of bus to purchase. This entry describes how transit agencies determine whether to buy high or low floor buses, and what manufacturer to buy from.
Transit In Denver
This article examines public transportation in Denver, Colorado.
This article examines public transportation in Denver, Colorado.
Westside Subway Extension
A profile of Los Angeles's Westside Subway Extension, currently in the planning phase.
A profile of Los Angeles's Westside Subway Extension, currently in the planning phase.
Bus Driver Health
This article describes the unhealthy nature of bus driving and makes three recommendations to improve bus driver health.
This article describes the unhealthy nature of bus driving and makes three recommendations to improve bus driver health.
Does TOD Increase Ridership?
This entry examines whether transit-oriented development increases ridership, and be referencing several case studies demonstrates that it does. It calls for more analysis to determine if the size of the city's rapid transit network predicts the success of transit oriented development.
This entry examines whether transit-oriented development increases ridership, and be referencing several case studies demonstrates that it does. It calls for more analysis to determine if the size of the city's rapid transit network predicts the success of transit oriented development.
A Common Scheduling Problem
This article describes a common bus scheduling problem and four ways in which it can be resolved.
This article describes a common bus scheduling problem and four ways in which it can be resolved.
San Diego Bus 2
This gallery contains images of buses and transit from San Diego, California, including the San Diego Trolley, the San Diego Metropolitan Transit System's buses, and the North County Transit District.
This gallery contains images of buses and transit from San Diego, California, including the San Diego Trolley, the San Diego Metropolitan Transit System's buses, and the North County Transit District.
Moving Minds: Cons and PT
A review of Moving Minds: Conservatives and Public Transportation
A review of Moving Minds: Conservatives and Public Transportation
High Speed Rail Corridor Overview
An overview of the current progress on each of the ten federally designated high speed rail corridors in the United States, including links to specific pages on each of the ten.
An overview of the current progress on each of the ten federally designated high speed rail corridors in the United States, including links to specific pages on each of the ten.
Positive Train Control
This article described what positive train control is, why we need positive train control, and what is taking so long for us to get it.
This article described what positive train control is, why we need positive train control, and what is taking so long for us to get it.
Car Free: 1,000,000 and Over
This list describes how each of the U.S. and Canadian Cities Over 1,000,000 fare in terms of ease of going without a car.
This list describes how each of the U.S. and Canadian Cities Over 1,000,000 fare in terms of ease of going without a car.
Overview of the NTD
This article gives an overview of the federal requirement that transit agencies submit annual data about the number of accidents, crimes, ridership, and passenger miles to the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) for inclusion in the NTD (National Transit Database). Agencies gather this information either by using automated passenger counting systems (APCs) or by manually collecting the data through riding randomly selected trips.
This article gives an overview of the federal requirement that transit agencies submit annual data about the number of accidents, crimes, ridership, and passenger miles to the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) for inclusion in the NTD (National Transit Database). Agencies gather this information either by using automated passenger counting systems (APCs) or by manually collecting the data through riding randomly selected trips.
San Diego Bus 1
This gallery contains images of buses and transit from San Diego, California, including the San Diego Trolley, the San Diego Metropolitan Transit System's buses, and the North County Transit District.
This gallery contains images of buses and transit from San Diego, California, including the San Diego Trolley, the San Diego Metropolitan Transit System's buses, and the North County Transit District.
New York MTA Capital Projects
This article goes over the three major capital projects currently being constructed by the New York MTA - the Long Island Railroad access to Grand Central Station, the extension of subway Line 7 to the far west side of Manhattan, and the first phase of the Second Avenue Subway from 63rd to 96th Street.
This article goes over the three major capital projects currently being constructed by the New York MTA - the Long Island Railroad access to Grand Central Station, the extension of subway Line 7 to the far west side of Manhattan, and the first phase of the Second Avenue Subway from 63rd to 96th Street.
A picture of a classic Melbourne tram, still in use in regular service.
Transit pictures from Melbourne taken during my trip to Australia from October 31 - November 13, 2010.
Transit pictures from Melbourne taken during my trip to Australia from October 31 - November 13, 2010.
San Diego Bus 4
This gallery contains images of buses and transit from San Diego, California, including the San Diego Trolley, the San Diego Metropolitan Transit System's buses, and the North County Transit District.
This gallery contains images of buses and transit from San Diego, California, including the San Diego Trolley, the San Diego Metropolitan Transit System's buses, and the North County Transit District.
Transit 101: The Layover
An article describing an essential aspect of transit, the layover location.
An article describing an essential aspect of transit, the layover location.
Stop Spacing of Rapid Transit Lines
This article examines how closely together subway stations should be, and concludes that 1/2 mile is the optimum stop spacing for subway lines.
This article examines how closely together subway stations should be, and concludes that 1/2 mile is the optimum stop spacing for subway lines.
How Safe Young People
This article reviews an article published in the Journal of Public Transportation assessing how safe young people in Melbourne, Australia feel about using public transportation.
This article reviews an article published in the Journal of Public Transportation assessing how safe young people in Melbourne, Australia feel about using public transportation.
Transit 101: The Spare Ratio
This article explains what the spare ratio is in transit, how much the spare ratio usually is, and factors that can affect the spare ratio.
This article explains what the spare ratio is in transit, how much the spare ratio usually is, and factors that can affect the spare ratio.
San Diego Trolley 2
This gallery contains images of buses and transit from San Diego, California, including the San Diego Trolley, the San Diego Metropolitan Transit System's buses, and the North County Transit District.
This gallery contains images of buses and transit from San Diego, California, including the San Diego Trolley, the San Diego Metropolitan Transit System's buses, and the North County Transit District.
Contracting Out: Frequency and Economics
This article describes how common the contracting out (or privatization) of public transit operations has become and the cost savings of privatization of transit service.
This article describes how common the contracting out (or privatization) of public transit operations has become and the cost savings of privatization of transit service.
Technology in Transit
An article reviewing how technology has made its mark in transit.
An article reviewing how technology has made its mark in transit.
Elasticity of Ridership
This article examines the elasticity of transit ridership in response to changes in fares and service levels.
This article examines the elasticity of transit ridership in response to changes in fares and service levels.
How Will Self-Driving Cars Aff?
This article examines how self-driving cars could affect public transit and public transportation and concludes that while some demand for transit will be reduced, many current transit passengers will be too poor to take advantage of these new technologies and transit systems, by significantly reducing labor costs, will be able to rely on fewer government subsidies.
This article examines how self-driving cars could affect public transit and public transportation and concludes that while some demand for transit will be reduced, many current transit passengers will be too poor to take advantage of these new technologies and transit systems, by significantly reducing labor costs, will be able to rely on fewer government subsidies.
California's Wage Order Number 9
This article summarizes California's Wage Order Number 9, which mandates rest periods and meal breaks, and it's effect on public transit in the state.
This article summarizes California's Wage Order Number 9, which mandates rest periods and meal breaks, and it's effect on public transit in the state.
Hastus User Conference
In this article I relate my experience at the Hastus user conference and more broadly about technology in transit.
In this article I relate my experience at the Hastus user conference and more broadly about technology in transit.
Metro Profile
This is a profile of the Los Angeles Metropolitan Transportation Authority.
This is a profile of the Los Angeles Metropolitan Transportation Authority.
Rules of Run Cut 1:Duty Types
This article describes the different duty types that make up a typical transit agency's run cut.
This article describes the different duty types that make up a typical transit agency's run cut.
Prog of Writing a Sch Part II
This is the second of a series of articles describing more specifically the steps of writing schedules in Hastus and other scheduling software programs.
This is the second of a series of articles describing more specifically the steps of writing schedules in Hastus and other scheduling software programs.
Pedestrian Safety and Transit
This article describes four ways that transit systems can make their networks safer for pedestrians and also discusses how transit systems can work with local planning departments to lessen the impact other pedestrian safety improvements have on transit systems.
This article describes four ways that transit systems can make their networks safer for pedestrians and also discusses how transit systems can work with local planning departments to lessen the impact other pedestrian safety improvements have on transit systems.
Value Engineering
This article describes value engineering - a concept used in rapid transit project management to control costs that sometimes leaves the resulting project unusable to unable to accommodate larger than expected demand.
This article describes value engineering - a concept used in rapid transit project management to control costs that sometimes leaves the resulting project unusable to unable to accommodate larger than expected demand.
Embarq and Transit Marketing
A review of Embarq corporation's recent article about how to improve transit ridership through marketing tools. Some of the tools include build a strong brand and identity, value internal communication, educate the users of your system early and often, provide simple but informative maps and schedules, tailor marketing messages to specific groups, control the media, be responsive to riders, and disseminate your information online.
A review of Embarq corporation's recent article about how to improve transit ridership through marketing tools. Some of the tools include build a strong brand and identity, value internal communication, educate the users of your system early and often, provide simple but informative maps and schedules, tailor marketing messages to specific groups, control the media, be responsive to riders, and disseminate your information online.
Transit Network Design
Two ways of looking at transit network design are described - the point-to-point system, in which many routes exist that attempt to connect everywhere to everywhere - and the grid system, in which every major street tends to have one route, and routes tend to be straight lines.
Two ways of looking at transit network design are described - the point-to-point system, in which many routes exist that attempt to connect everywhere to everywhere - and the grid system, in which every major street tends to have one route, and routes tend to be straight lines.
Speeding Up Local Bus Service
This article examines four ways that we could speed up local bus service: preventing cash fare payment on buses, removing bus stops, installing signal priority, and installing bus lanes.
This article examines four ways that we could speed up local bus service: preventing cash fare payment on buses, removing bus stops, installing signal priority, and installing bus lanes.
High Speed Rail Update 1/13
This is an American high speed rail update as of January 2013.
This is an American high speed rail update as of January 2013.
New Starts Overview
An overview of the Federal New Starts Program, the federal government's primary method of supporting the construction of new rapid transit lines and rehabilitation of existing ones. The program's budget is examined, including which projects are currently receiving funding. An analysis of the criteria upon which projects are judged follows; afterwards, the article discusses project timelines. The article concludes with an overall analysis of the program.
An overview of the Federal New Starts Program, the federal government's primary method of supporting the construction of new rapid transit lines and rehabilitation of existing ones. The program's budget is examined, including which projects are currently receiving funding. An analysis of the criteria upon which projects are judged follows; afterwards, the article discusses project timelines. The article concludes with an overall analysis of the program.
Work Rules That Increase Cost
Here I describe three union work rules that increase the cost of operating transit, and conclude that eliminating the rules would make transit more economically efficient without affecting the wages or benefits of the bus drivers.
Here I describe three union work rules that increase the cost of operating transit, and conclude that eliminating the rules would make transit more economically efficient without affecting the wages or benefits of the bus drivers.
The School Service Rule
This article describes what kind of transportation local transit agencies can offer to schools and how such transportation may be restricted by Federal Transit Administration regulations.
This article describes what kind of transportation local transit agencies can offer to schools and how such transportation may be restricted by Federal Transit Administration regulations.
Simplicity in Route Design
This article argues for simplicity in route design as a tool to attract higher patronage to transit.
This article argues for simplicity in route design as a tool to attract higher patronage to transit.
Overview of Title VI
This article provides an overview of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and how it ensures that transit agencies provide their services in a racially equitable manner.
This article provides an overview of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and how it ensures that transit agencies provide their services in a racially equitable manner.
Review of Waiting on a Train
A review of Waiting on a Train by James McCommons.
A review of Waiting on a Train by James McCommons.
Transit 101: Pay to Platform
This article explains the importance of the pay to platform ratio and explains how reducing it will save transit agencies money.
This article explains the importance of the pay to platform ratio and explains how reducing it will save transit agencies money.
Profile of New York MTA
Overview of New York's Metropolitan Transportation Authority, including facts about ridership, the network, funding, and future transit projects.
Overview of New York's Metropolitan Transportation Authority, including facts about ridership, the network, funding, and future transit projects.
Transit Advocacy Groups
Learn how you can make a difference in your transit system even if you do not work for the local transit agency.
Learn how you can make a difference in your transit system even if you do not work for the local transit agency.
Transit in Pittsburgh
This article examines transit in Pittsburgh, including the network, fares, funding, projects, and outlook for the future.
This article examines transit in Pittsburgh, including the network, fares, funding, projects, and outlook for the future.
Fare Payment Systems - A Primer
This article introduces the different ways transit fares can be paid, including by cash, token, ticket, transfer, day pass, monthly pass, UPASSES, tap cards, and through open fare payments by using credit cards.
This article introduces the different ways transit fares can be paid, including by cash, token, ticket, transfer, day pass, monthly pass, UPASSES, tap cards, and through open fare payments by using credit cards.
San Diego Bus 3
This gallery contains images of buses and transit from San Diego, California, including the San Diego Trolley, the San Diego Metropolitan Transit System's buses, and the North County Transit District.
This gallery contains images of buses and transit from San Diego, California, including the San Diego Trolley, the San Diego Metropolitan Transit System's buses, and the North County Transit District.
Transit in Ann Arbor, MI
A description of transit in Ann Arbor, MI.
A description of transit in Ann Arbor, MI.
Review of MAP-21
Here is my review of the new federal transportation bill - MAP-21 (Moving Ahead for Progress In the 21st Century).
Here is my review of the new federal transportation bill - MAP-21 (Moving Ahead for Progress In the 21st Century).
New York Bus 2
This gallery contains images of transit and buses from the state of New York and New York City. Currently featured are the buses, subways, and commuter trains of the Metropolitan Transportation Authority of New York, including MTA New York Bus, MTA New York Subway,and MTA Metro North railroad.
This gallery contains images of transit and buses from the state of New York and New York City. Currently featured are the buses, subways, and commuter trains of the Metropolitan Transportation Authority of New York, including MTA New York Bus, MTA New York Subway,and MTA Metro North railroad.
San Diego Trolley 3
This gallery contains images of buses and transit from San Diego, California, including the San Diego Trolley, the San Diego Metropolitan Transit System's buses, and the North County Transit District.
This gallery contains images of buses and transit from San Diego, California, including the San Diego Trolley, the San Diego Metropolitan Transit System's buses, and the North County Transit District.
Reasons to Take Transit
In this article I go over some of the compelling reasons to take transit.
In this article I go over some of the compelling reasons to take transit.
SMART Bus 2
This gallery contains images of buses and transit from places in Michigan. Currently featured are Ann Arbor's two transit providers - the University of Michigan and the Ann Arbor Transportation Authority - and Detroit's two transit providers - SMART and the Detroit Department of Transportation.
This gallery contains images of buses and transit from places in Michigan. Currently featured are Ann Arbor's two transit providers - the University of Michigan and the Ann Arbor Transportation Authority - and Detroit's two transit providers - SMART and the Detroit Department of Transportation.
Marketing of System II: The Network
This article explores three different ways that public transport systems have attempted to brand their system networks in an effort to make them simpler and easier to us by the public.
This article explores three different ways that public transport systems have attempted to brand their system networks in an effort to make them simpler and easier to us by the public.
The Value of On-Time Performance
This article describes the value of on-time performance and the relative merits of headway-based operation versus traditional schedule-based operation.
This article describes the value of on-time performance and the relative merits of headway-based operation versus traditional schedule-based operation.
Three Sources of Transit Planning Information
The article describes, in my opinion, the three sources of transit planning information.
The article describes, in my opinion, the three sources of transit planning information.
The Green-Passenger
A New Kind of Transit Passenger - The Green-Passenger Traditionally transit has recognized two distinct
A New Kind of Transit Passenger - The Green-Passenger Traditionally transit has recognized two distinct
The Last Mile Problem
This article examines the last mile problem in transit planning and how it could be overcome.
This article examines the last mile problem in transit planning and how it could be overcome.
Review of Better PT Systems
A review of Better Public Transit Systems by Eric Bruun.
A review of Better Public Transit Systems by Eric Bruun.
Improvements in Rail Safety
This article describes safety improvements implemented or planned since the Los Angles Metrolink Commuter Train crash in September 2008.
This article describes safety improvements implemented or planned since the Los Angles Metrolink Commuter Train crash in September 2008.
A Review of Driving Excellence
A book review of the book Driving Excellence: Transform Your Organization's Culture - An Achieve Revolutionary Results by Mark Aesch, CEO of the Rochester Genesee Transportation Authority.
A book review of the book Driving Excellence: Transform Your Organization's Culture - An Achieve Revolutionary Results by Mark Aesch, CEO of the Rochester Genesee Transportation Authority.
TTC Projects
A list of rapid transit projects currently being constructed or under consideration at the Toronto Transit Commission.
A list of rapid transit projects currently being constructed or under consideration at the Toronto Transit Commission.
Psychology and Urban Planning
This article argues that the makeup of Walker's network design class - young, healthy, choice riders who work in the public sector of the urban planning profession - explains the near universal decision to avoid any effective suburban transit in favor of robust central city transit, to make people walk a long distance to the nearest bus stop, and to utilize all available resources, even if deployment of said resources is inefficient.
This article argues that the makeup of Walker's network design class - young, healthy, choice riders who work in the public sector of the urban planning profession - explains the near universal decision to avoid any effective suburban transit in favor of robust central city transit, to make people walk a long distance to the nearest bus stop, and to utilize all available resources, even if deployment of said resources is inefficient.
Transit 101: Empty Buses
Transit 101: Answering The Question: "Why Are All the Buses Empty?" One of the most frequent questions
Transit 101: Answering The Question: "Why Are All the Buses Empty?" One of the most frequent questions
Review of Transit Metropolis
This is a review of The Transit Metropolis by Robert Cervero.
This is a review of The Transit Metropolis by Robert Cervero.
Streetcars and Development
This article examines whether new streetcar lines promote development, and while results from Portland, OR and Seattle seem to suggest they do, it is unclear whether this development was caused by the rail line or would have occurred anyway.
This article examines whether new streetcar lines promote development, and while results from Portland, OR and Seattle seem to suggest they do, it is unclear whether this development was caused by the rail line or would have occurred anyway.
Network Design at Home
This article describes the basic makeup of a recent urban planning class taught by Jarrett Walker and how in a simplified format any person can engage in a similar activity, which is an effective way to think more about how public transit can better serve a particular city.
This article describes the basic makeup of a recent urban planning class taught by Jarrett Walker and how in a simplified format any person can engage in a similar activity, which is an effective way to think more about how public transit can better serve a particular city.
Transit Network Map Design
This article looks at the design of the transit network map, which is one of the most important planning documents that a transit agency can have. After three historical trends in map design are discussed, the article examines potential future directions.
This article looks at the design of the transit network map, which is one of the most important planning documents that a transit agency can have. After three historical trends in map design are discussed, the article examines potential future directions.
Mississauga Transit 3
This gallery contains images of buses and transit from places in Ontario. Currently featured are some of the ten transit providers in the greater Toronto area, including the Toronto Transit Commission's buses, streetcars and subways; GO Transit; Mississauga Transit; and Brampton Transit.
This gallery contains images of buses and transit from places in Ontario. Currently featured are some of the ten transit providers in the greater Toronto area, including the Toronto Transit Commission's buses, streetcars and subways; GO Transit; Mississauga Transit; and Brampton Transit.
8 Reasons Why Stop Using Tr
This article reviews a journal article that elucidated eight reasons why people stop using transit and made recommendations to overcome those reasons.
This article reviews a journal article that elucidated eight reasons why people stop using transit and made recommendations to overcome those reasons.
Flat Versus Distance Fares
This article examines the advantages and disadvantages of flat versus distance-based fares.
This article examines the advantages and disadvantages of flat versus distance-based fares.
San Diego Trolley Interior
This gallery contains images of buses and transit from San Diego, California, including the San Diego Trolley, the San Diego Metropolitan Transit System's buses, and the North County Transit District.
This gallery contains images of buses and transit from San Diego, California, including the San Diego Trolley, the San Diego Metropolitan Transit System's buses, and the North County Transit District.
San Diego Trolley 4
This gallery contains images of buses and transit from San Diego, California, including the San Diego Trolley, the San Diego Metropolitan Transit System's buses, and the North County Transit District.
This gallery contains images of buses and transit from San Diego, California, including the San Diego Trolley, the San Diego Metropolitan Transit System's buses, and the North County Transit District.
San Diego Trolley Action Shot
This gallery contains images of buses and transit from San Diego, California, including the San Diego Trolley, the San Diego Metropolitan Transit System's buses, and the North County Transit District.
This gallery contains images of buses and transit from San Diego, California, including the San Diego Trolley, the San Diego Metropolitan Transit System's buses, and the North County Transit District.
Local Funding of Transit
This article describes some of the non-fare based local revenue sources for public transit.
This article describes some of the non-fare based local revenue sources for public transit.
Transit Centers
This article describes the advantages and disadvantages of off-street transit centers and concludes that if used correctly they can improve the transit experience for passengers in small to medium sized cities, but space limitations prevent effective usage in large cities with the most robust transit systems.
This article describes the advantages and disadvantages of off-street transit centers and concludes that if used correctly they can improve the transit experience for passengers in small to medium sized cities, but space limitations prevent effective usage in large cities with the most robust transit systems.
A Melbourne suburban train approaching a station.
Transit pictures from Melbourne taken during my trip to Australia from October 31 - November 13, 2010.
Transit pictures from Melbourne taken during my trip to Australia from October 31 - November 13, 2010.
LA Metro Highway Bus
This gallery contains images of buses and transit from places in Southern California. Featured are the buses and rail lines of Los Angeles Metro, and the buses of Long Beach Transit, Santa Monica Big Blue Bus, Culver City Municipal Bus Lines, Foothill Transit, Torrance Transit, Orange County Transportation Authority, Foothill Transit, the San Diego Metropolitan Transit System's buses and rail lines, Santa Barbara Mass Transit District, Los Angeles DASH and Commuter Express, and others.
This gallery contains images of buses and transit from places in Southern California. Featured are the buses and rail lines of Los Angeles Metro, and the buses of Long Beach Transit, Santa Monica Big Blue Bus, Culver City Municipal Bus Lines, Foothill Transit, Torrance Transit, Orange County Transportation Authority, Foothill Transit, the San Diego Metropolitan Transit System's buses and rail lines, Santa Barbara Mass Transit District, Los Angeles DASH and Commuter Express, and others.
Three Essential Transit Jobs
These are three jobs that every transit system should have but that some people do not know exist.
These are three jobs that every transit system should have but that some people do not know exist.
Review of Century of Subways
This is a review of A Century of Subways (Celebrating 100 Years of New York's Underground Railways) by Brian Cudahy.
This is a review of A Century of Subways (Celebrating 100 Years of New York's Underground Railways) by Brian Cudahy.
Demise of the Streetcar in the US
This article describes six major reasons why streetcars were replaced by buses in the United States, why streetcars, also called trams, continue to be used extensively in Europe, and the recent trend towards construction of new streetcar and light rail lines.
This article describes six major reasons why streetcars were replaced by buses in the United States, why streetcars, also called trams, continue to be used extensively in Europe, and the recent trend towards construction of new streetcar and light rail lines.
Destination Signs
An article describing transit vehicle destination or headsigns.
An article describing transit vehicle destination or headsigns.
Transit In Detroit
This article goes over the public transit options available in the Motor City, including a description of the network, funding, fares, and planned projects.
This article goes over the public transit options available in the Motor City, including a description of the network, funding, fares, and planned projects.
Transport for Suburbia
A review of Transport For Suburbia: Beyond the Automobile Age by Paul Mees.
A review of Transport For Suburbia: Beyond the Automobile Age by Paul Mees.
LA Metro Rapid and Local
This gallery contains images of buses and transit from places in Southern California. Featured are the buses and rail lines of Los Angeles Metro, and the buses of Long Beach Transit, Santa Monica Big Blue Bus, Culver City Municipal Bus Lines, Foothill Transit, Torrance Transit, Orange County Transportation Authority, Foothill Transit, the San Diego Metropolitan Transit System's buses and rail lines, Santa Barbara Mass Transit District, Los Angeles DASH and Commuter Express, and others.
This gallery contains images of buses and transit from places in Southern California. Featured are the buses and rail lines of Los Angeles Metro, and the buses of Long Beach Transit, Santa Monica Big Blue Bus, Culver City Municipal Bus Lines, Foothill Transit, Torrance Transit, Orange County Transportation Authority, Foothill Transit, the San Diego Metropolitan Transit System's buses and rail lines, Santa Barbara Mass Transit District, Los Angeles DASH and Commuter Express, and others.
TTC Bus 3
This gallery contains images of buses and transit from places in Ontario. Currently featured are some of the ten transit providers in the greater Toronto area, including the Toronto Transit Commission's buses, streetcars and subways; GO Transit; Mississauga Transit; and Brampton Transit.
This gallery contains images of buses and transit from places in Ontario. Currently featured are some of the ten transit providers in the greater Toronto area, including the Toronto Transit Commission's buses, streetcars and subways; GO Transit; Mississauga Transit; and Brampton Transit.
Review of Human Transit
A review of public transportation consultant Jarrett Walker's book Human Transit.
A review of public transportation consultant Jarrett Walker's book Human Transit.
Las Vegas's RTC
Overview of Las Vegas's Regional Transportation Commission, including facts about ridership, the network, funding; and an overview of future transit projects.
Overview of Las Vegas's Regional Transportation Commission, including facts about ridership, the network, funding; and an overview of future transit projects.
Rules of Run Cut 2: Rule Vsn
This article describes the importance of the rule version to an agency's run cut.
This article describes the importance of the rule version to an agency's run cut.
Review of Urban Mass Transit
A review of Robert Post's book Urban Mass Transit - The Life Story of a Technology.
A review of Robert Post's book Urban Mass Transit - The Life Story of a Technology.
Exterior of Pittsburgh Subway Station
This gallery contains images of transit and buses from Pittsburgh. Currently featured is the Pittsburgh Port Authority.
This gallery contains images of transit and buses from Pittsburgh. Currently featured is the Pittsburgh Port Authority.
UPASS Programs
An overview of UPASS programs and their benefits to both the transit system and the university.
An overview of UPASS programs and their benefits to both the transit system and the university.
Successful Bus-Rail Interfaces
Many transit systems are constructing light and heavy rail lines. But since their reach is necessarily limited, if bus system improvements do not happen concurrently with the rail line opening then the rail line will not be successful. This article describes how to create successful bus-rail interfaces.
Many transit systems are constructing light and heavy rail lines. But since their reach is necessarily limited, if bus system improvements do not happen concurrently with the rail line opening then the rail line will not be successful. This article describes how to create successful bus-rail interfaces.
Seattle Monorail 1
This gallery contains images of transit and buses from Washington state. Currently featured are the Link Light Rail and Sounder Commuter Rail operated by Sound Transit, the Seattle Monorail, the diesel and trolley buses operated by King County Metro, and the buses of the Whatcom Transit Authority in Bellingham.
This gallery contains images of transit and buses from Washington state. Currently featured are the Link Light Rail and Sounder Commuter Rail operated by Sound Transit, the Seattle Monorail, the diesel and trolley buses operated by King County Metro, and the buses of the Whatcom Transit Authority in Bellingham.
Long Beach 1979 1
This gallery contains images of buses and transit from places in Southern California. Featured are the buses and rail lines of Los Angeles Metro, and the buses of Long Beach Transit, Santa Monica Big Blue Bus, Culver City Municipal Bus Lines, Foothill Transit, Torrance Transit, Orange County Transportation Authority, Foothill Transit, the San Diego Metropolitan Transit System's buses and rail lines, Santa Barbara Mass Transit District, Los Angeles DASH and Commuter Express, and others.
This gallery contains images of buses and transit from places in Southern California. Featured are the buses and rail lines of Los Angeles Metro, and the buses of Long Beach Transit, Santa Monica Big Blue Bus, Culver City Municipal Bus Lines, Foothill Transit, Torrance Transit, Orange County Transportation Authority, Foothill Transit, the San Diego Metropolitan Transit System's buses and rail lines, Santa Barbara Mass Transit District, Los Angeles DASH and Commuter Express, and others.