Holistic Public Transport Acceleration in Essen
Introduction
In a growing city like Essen, public transport is becoming increasingly important against the backdrop of current climate change debates. By developing and strengthening a high-quality service, the sustainable transport network can be enhanced, and a shift from private motorized transport (MIV) to public transport and other modes within the sustainable transport network can be achieved.
The consultants at PTV Transport Consult assist you with analyses and feasibility studies for your public transport system.
Project Description
A high-quality service not only includes the trip frequency and the quality of public transport infrastructure but also, in particular, a high level of punctuality and reliability. Even minor delays can have significant negative impacts for passengers who miss connections. Measures to accelerate public transport can ensure high punctuality and, if applicable, also achieve shorter travel times.
Project Details
Task and Approach
As part of a feasibility study for comprehensive public transport (PT) acceleration, a holistic concept was to be developed using one tram line (Line 103) and two pairs of bus lines (Lines 154/155 and 160/161), which could then be applied to other lines.
In the initial situation, data collection and inventory were carried out to locate and analyze problematic sections. Real operational passenger data was evaluated using the Intermodal Transport Control System (ITCS). For automated analysis, a comprehensive tool based on MS Excel was developed. Additionally, a workshop with Ruhrbahn drivers was conducted, and the results were compiled into a disruption map. By combining the ITCS data with the drivers’ local knowledge, the sources of disruptions could be fully understood.
The subsequent solution concept investigated which measures could eliminate the identified disruptions.
In addition to classical traffic-light acceleration at intersections, numerous other infrastructural, operational, and regulatory measures were analyzed, including:
- Optimization of the location of stops within the street environment
- Introduction of bus lanes
- Optimization of access to stops
- Adjustment of line routes
- Designation of no-parking zones in problematic areas
Regarding the implementation of measures, a systematic process was developed, covering the stages from inventory and realization to impact analysis, success monitoring, and documentation.
Results
Upon completion of the project, Ruhrbahn GmbH was provided with a complete toolkit for analysis, development of measures, impact assessment, and success monitoring based on the lines studied. In addition, a guideline was provided outlining the necessary steps for the company to apply this methodology to the remaining lines of Essen’s public transport network in the future.
The delivered toolkit includes:
- Guidance on which ITCS data are required
- A user-friendly Excel tool for evaluating ITCS data
- Instructions regarding the content of workshops with drivers
- Templates for disruption maps based on ITCS data and workshop results
- An Excel form for line-specific impact analysis, enabling visualization of the effectiveness and costs of potential measures
For one line section, operations were also replicated in a simulation model using PTV Vissim. Based on the analyzed state, the effectiveness of the considered acceleration measures (e.g., dedicated bus lanes, relocation of stops, traffic-light priority) could be evaluated and validated.