Getting the network that meets the public policy requirements: decision support method #38
Description
Busclar paper by @temospena, @gmatosferreira and @filmoura, identified multiple factors that are relevant for bus lane prioritization and are already available on OSM data.
Relying on OSM network data allows to cross with other information available in this open geographical database. For instance, we can easily compare the results with existing bus lanes and identify high-frequency segments lacking dedicated infrastructure, which should be prioritized. Note that for two-way segments, frequency is aggregated.
Additionally, filtering the road network segments by the number of lanes in the same direction (two or more), can further support decisions on implementing bus corridors. However, policies may also favour bus lanes on single-lane streets, for example, to create transit-priority streets.
Further enhancements of the method may include passenger capacity per hour instead of just frequency. Routes with articulated or double-deck buses (around 100 passengers) could be given more weight than neighbourhood minibuses (up to 25 passengers).
Original text on https://github.com/U-Shift/busclar/blob/main/paper/paper.Rmd
We could create a method that incorporates an aggregated analysis considering all of these factors, extending the hourly frequency analysis, to support decision. It would receive customizable parameters (thresholds, context defined) and return a bus network that meets those requirements.