SWUTC Research Project Description

Title of Project:  An Examination of Density and Ridership in New Light Rail Cities

Project Number:  167363

Principal Investigator:          
Carol Lewis
(713) 313-7924
P.I. Affiliation:  Texas Southern University

Project Monitor:
Miki Milovanovic
Manager, Capital Planning
Metropolitan Transit Authority
(713) 739-4638

Project Status:  Active

Date Started:  9/1/06

Estimation Completion Date:  8/31/07

Estimated Cost – Current Fiscal:  $23,200

Estimated Cost – Total Planned:  $23,200

Project Summary:
Abstract:               
Most of the literature regarding successful rail transit systems argues that density is a precursor to gaining solid levels of ridership. There is little argument that higher density is likely to show positive correlation with rail success, as measured by ridership levels.  However, there may be subtleties associated with this issue that offer clarity about how moderate density cities overcome the density advantage.   Indeed, several cities with moderate density are having success with light rail transit.  A number of moderate density cities are placing themselves in queue to follow their footsteps by planning light rail systems and seeking Federal funding for these systems.   For years rail advocates have faced the question of density; opponents use a lack of density as a reason not to pursue rail. This work will examine whether there are elements that can serve as a density-balance, thus increasing the successes of moderate density cities with rail.    

Objectives:
This research will provide important information for cities considering new light rail systems and those considering bus rapid transit.  In addition, the findings may add insight for cities that have already implemented light rail and provide concepts to increase ridership. 

Tasks:

Task 1: 
Review and update literature relative to density and ridership.  Focus also on any assessments that would focus on bus rapid transit (BRT) as compared to those focusing on rapid or light rail.

Task 2: 
From the Task 1 findings, confirm the criteria and elements that are contribute to transit ridership.  These criteria are expected to include, but are not limited to income, cost to drive and park, cost of taking transit and characteristics of the service.  Other elements important to ridership, such as the characteristics of the service will also be delineated.

Task 3:
A number of example cities will be assembled to examine on the basis of elements identified in Task 2.  These cities will include a combination of rail and bus cities, with some newer and longer time systems to allow comparison of statistics across a range of variables.  

Task 4:
The data will be synthesized and displayed using standard techniques for diversity-oriented research.  The research team will make full use of the existing data on US DOT and US Census Bureau websites to ensure consistency across the City databases.  Necessary supplemental information will be sought from individual cities as needed. 

Task 5: 
Prepare the final report.

Index Terms:
Light Rail Transit, Public Transit, Density, Ridership, City Planning, Decision Making, Databases, Bus Rapid Transit