The Identification and Management of Bus Priority Schemes; A Study of International Experiences and Best Practices

Abstract

Priority measures for bus services can deliver significant benefits both for passengers and the operator. For example, green light priority or the conversion of road space to dedicated bus lanes can deliver journey time benefits thereby improving both quality of service and operational efficiency. This study investigates how bus priority schemes are identified and managed in 14 different cities across Asia, Australia, Europe and North America. The study reviews the decision making processes, and associated input from bus operators,involved in identifying necessary bus schemes. The different methods of bus priority enforcement adopted within the cities of the participating bus organisations (either by themselves or the relevant enforcing agency) is explored to establish interesting and successful ways to ensure effective enforcement of bus priority measures. This report may be useful to different stakeholders experiencing difficulties with bus priority: city/ borough governments, road authorities, bus operators, passenger groups, police, and other organisations.