AN ASSESSMENT OF LIGHT RAIL TRANSIT (LRT) FOR SHOPPING TRIPS

Abstract

Over the years, huge improvements have been made to Singapore's public transport system. A major milestone was reached when the Light Rail Transit (LRT) began its operations in 1999. The LRT marked a significant step forward, radically changing our public transport landscape and travel patterns. With the advent of the LRT, the Land Transport Authority is a step closer in achieving a "world-class land transport system". With the decentralization proposal in the 1991 Concept Plan, adequate transportation «/ modes are needed to 'direct' these shoppers to the malls they desire to patronize. Hence, this study aims to find out the shoppers' perception of the LRT. In addition to that, travel and shoppers' patronage behaviour studies conducted attempt to ascertain whether more LRT systems should be constructed for shopping purposes. These empirical studies focus on the travel and shoppers' shopping patterns, examining the responses with regards to the LRT system and the likely impacts of the system on travel patterns. This study seeks to provide insights for planners in the formulation of future transport policies.