THE DIAL-A-RIDE R&D PROGRAM

This report discusses the role and the economics of Dial-A-Ride, a modern concept of public transportation particularly well suited for suburban areas. The following five roles are identified: (1) suburban feeder service to line haul transit; (2) suburban local transit; (3) small urban area transit; (4) night and Sunday service; and (5) transit for the handicapped, senior citizens and other groups with special needs. It is found that by bringing all residents of an area within the reach of the transit system, higher patronage is realized than with conventional service in the same area. Also, the use of Dial-A-Ride service as a feeder to line haul bus or rapid rail service provides a transit system that is a true alternative to widespread private automobile usage. The cost of Dial-A-Ride service is reflective of the cost of any transit services in areas of low, widely dispersed demands. Annual subsidies have been required for transit services in such areas. The subsidies of Dial-A-Ride service are comparable to the costs of other public services such as garbage collection and police protection.