A GIS-MCDM Method for Ranking Potential Station Locations in the Expansion of Bike-Sharing Systems

Bicycle-sharing systems (BSSs) are an effective solution to reduce private car usage in most cities and influential factor encouraging citizens shift more sustainable transport modes. In this sense, the location of BSS stations has a critical impact on system’s efficiency. This study proposed integrated geographic information system–multi-criteria decision-making (GIS-MCDM) framework that includes analytic hierarchy process (AHP), technique for order preference by similarity ideal (TOPSIS), spatial data processing GIS determine ranking potential locations stations. The results GIS-MCDM method can be used both planning new or expanding one is currently under operation. was applied case GIRA, Lisbon, Portugal. it, criteria were selected four categories, including from literature extracted available transaction data; addition, we also suggested some criteria. rebalancing operator’s staff decision makers via their responses AHP questionnaire. believed main criterion “city infrastructure” with two sub-criteria “population density” “slope” important. Furthermore, proximity “bike network” sub-criterion “proximity current bike stations” had less importance. Each criterion’s weight inconsistency rate obtained using Expert Choice software. values each created utilizing ArcGIS software, its network analyst module employed applying techniques. Based suitability map, city’s center suitable area establishing Forty-five identified those areas ranked TOPSIS technique.