A model with a solution algorithm for the improvement of an existing bikeway network

Abstract

Currently, although there are bikeway networks in many cities in Taiwan, they do not effectively meet expectations. Parts of the existing bikeway network need to be reconstructed or changed to make improvements. In this study, a network flow technique and mathematical programming method are used to construct a bikeway network improvement model for an existing bikeway network system. The objective of the model is to minimise the cyclists’ travel time subject to the related operating constraints. The proposed model is formulated as a mixed-integer multiple-commodity network flow problem. A solution algorithm is also developed to efficiently solve the proposed model for large-scale real-world problems. To test how well the model and the solution algorithm can be applied in the real world, a case study with several problem instances randomly generated based on real parameters for Taipei City is carried out. The test results show the effectiveness of the proposed model and solution algorithm.