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Benefit–Cost Evaluation Method for Transit Stop Removal

The introduction of wider stop spacing through the removal or the consolidation of existing stops is one method that transit agencies can use to reduce travel time and to increase reliability on many transit lines. Much research has been conducted to provide tools for determining optimal stop spacing, but tools are still needed to help service planners determine the optimal stops to remove. Stop-level bus performance data provide the information needed to develop a method for assessing the total benefits and costs to riders of removing individual stops. This tool compares the benefit to through-riders in regard to travel time savings, with the additional access cost to riders who use the stop. The tool was applied to a bus route in Portland, Oregon, with stop-level ridership data from TriMet, the regional transit agency. The case study identified three stops with high benefit–cost ratios. The effects of removing those stops are discussed. A sensitivity analysis was performed to show the effect of changing the value of the time factor or the assumed time savings from each stop removal. Further research needs are identified. Trade-offs are discussed in regard to the use of this tool. Overall, the assessment tool provides a relatively simple way for transit service planners to identify ideal stops for removal or consolidation.