A novel decision-making support model based on value of time for public transport planning

Abstract

Knowing exactly the value of time (VoT) for an individual may be a focus, resultant or definer in transportation planning. In a conventional transit planning paradigm, the decisions that have to be primarily implemented, along with the implementation programs, are determined through heuristic rather than analytical methods. Calculation of the VoT for each zone and scrutiny of these values through the correlation of transit surveys may be crucial in the process of determining investible zones. In the implementation process, the VoT for a zone may be evaluated as a primary selection indicator and thus efficient use of resources may be provided and sustainable development may be ensured. In this study, transit surveys were categorised and VoT estimates were then compared. The investments and interventions generated by evaluating the needs, complaints and expectations of transit users in different zones were sorted by considering the VoT. An analytical model was thus generated for transit planners, policy-makers and decision-makers to determine primarily investable zones in the implementation levels of urban transit planning. A case study revealed that reliability, driver behaviour, route and stop condition indicators provide consistency in selecting the zone priority.