Performance and operation evaluation of transit systems using micro traffic simulation

Abstract

Bus priority at traffic signals had been one of the efficient ways in improving passenger throughput at intersections and increasing bus speeds. Conventionally, a signal priority scheme provides buses with an absolute priority (by keeping passenger throughput as the key criteria). However, little attention was paid to verify whether bus signal priority affects operational performance. Opportunity for research lies in establishing suitable criteria for signal priority, especially when buses operating on different routes arrive together at an intersection with varying individual operational status such as ahead of, behind or on schedule. This study aims to provide a new methodology which ensures a reasonable use of signal priority for individual services and establish suitable criteria founded upon the operational needs of buses during their operation. For performance measurement and evaluation purpose, PARAMICS, a microscopic simulation model will be used as a tool.