Exploring the effects of passive transit signal priority design on bus rapid transit operation: a microsimulation-based optimization approach

The Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system can be a cost-effective alternative to foster public transportation. However, the delay in signalized intersections is critical to the stable progression of BRT operation. Transit Signal Priority (TSP) control has been studied to enhance the BRT operation. Nevertheless, the implementation of TSP may also impact general traffic and induce objection from the public. Upon this challenging aspect, this study focuses on passive TSP control for the BRT system. A microsimulation-based optimization model is developed to coordinate signal offsets along the arterial of BRT operation, seeking to minimize the delay of BRT vehicles without severely affecting the service level for other traffic. We conduct a case study over the Taichung BRT System in Taiwan; it indicates that the passive TSP control can reduce approximately 22% of transit delay while containing moderate impact on other traffic. In addition, the derived control strategies can increase system capacity with satisfactory service reliability.