Transport for Wales in the UK and Jacksonville Transportation Authority in Florida, USA are among the first organisations to adopt a new strategic planning solution aimed at enhancing the planning and operation of public transportation networks.
Launched by Optibus, a provider of optimisation software for public transport, the tool aims to support public transportation agencies in creating passenger-centric services while meeting operational, financial, and environmental goals.
The strategic planning suite, designed in collaboration with transportation planners, integrates multiple data layers with machine learning and visualisation tools. It offers a detailed overview of network efficiency, accessibility, cost, and performance.
The suite is divided into two main toolkits: an accessibility and equity toolbox and an availability and efficiency toolbox, both aimed at addressing public transportation challenges.
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Common challenges can include matching vehicle capacity and frequency to ridership levels, improving accessibility for underserved communities, adapting to changes in demand or service disruptions, and maintaining cost transparency and operational efficiency.
According to Optibus, the strategic planning suite aims to address these challenges by centralising essential data and employing advanced optimisation and visualisation tools, enabling transportation planners to gain insights that can improve both passenger experience and operational performance.
“Network planning is both an art and a science,” said Amos Haggiag, Optibus CEO and co-founder. “Strategic planning gives planners the ultimate technology toolkit for building more efficient and equitable transit networks, fulfilling the needs of passengers, cities, and the environment.”
Achievements and innovations in transport planning will be celebrated at the third annual CiTTi Awards, which will be held on 26 November 2024 at De Vere Grand Connaught Rooms in London. Visit www.cittiawards.co.uk to learn more about this unmissable event for the UK’s transportation sector – and to book your table!
