The Role of RTI in Enhancing Public Transport

Public transport operators see benefits from being able to locate their vehicles and manage their fleet better - giving real improvements in reliability On board systems provide a platform for RTI (real time information) and other location based services e.g. provision of priority at traffic signals. CCTV also provides enhanced personal safety for drivers as well as users. The public will pay for SMS services, which can provide a revenue stream for operators. Enhanced information can be used as a basis for proving reliability, or conversely for identifying locations where improvementsare required to improve reliability. Particularly when included as part of 'whole route treatments' (Red Routes, for example) ITS can increase reliability, increase patronage and, importantly for network managers reduce reliance on the car. Enforcement systems can also help ensure capacity is available to give priority for public transport vehicles. Finally, end users like real time information; it improves the image and attractiveness of public transport and perceptions of service reliability. For the covering abstract see ITRD E134522