A Simulation Study to Derive the Optimal Cycle Length for Feeder Transit Services

This paper presents a simulation study to evaluate the capacity and the optimum service cycle time of a demand responsive transit “feeder” service within the colonia of El Cenizo, TX. Demand data are taken from a survey questionnaire conducted to evaluate the existing travel patterns and the potential demand for a feeder service. Results showed that a single shuttle would be able to comfortably serve 150 passengers per day and that a fleet of 7-8 vehicles would be needed to serve the residential area. The optimal cycle length between consecutive departures from the terminal should be between 11-13 minutes for best service quality. This exploratory study can serve as a first step towards improving transportation services within these growing underprivileged communities, but also other residential areas, especially those with demographics and geometry similar to our target area of El Cenizo. DOI: 10.4018/978-1-4666-2649-2.ch010