Bus Network Optimization with a Time-Dependent Hybrid Algorithm

This paper describes a new hybrid technique that combines a Greedy Randomized Adaptive Search Procedure (GRASP) and a genetic algorithm with simulation features in order to solve the Bus-Network Scheduling Problem (BNSP). The GRASP is used as an initialization method to find the routes between bus stops. The Genetic Algorithm is used to find the whole configuration of the bus network, together with a simulation tool that finds the values of the environmentally dependent dynamic variables. The new method was tested with an academic case of study, and the results clearly satisfy the requirements of both the transport user and the transport operator.