An Evaluation of Passenger Values & Comparison of the MAX Versus Other Regular Buses

The Utah Transit Authority (UTA) started a project called "MAX", which refers to seven planned bus rapid transit (BRT) implementations, according to the 2030 Regional Transportation Plan (RTP). The 3500 South Street corridor has been chosen as the first of the seven BRT lines to be implemented to help alleviate congestion and reduce passenger loads on RT 35, a regular bus line which operates along this corridor. The 3500 South BRT line will run from Magna to the 3300 South TRAX stations, providing fast and reliable connection for commuters from Magna and West Valley to the LRT Sandy line, It covers 10.1 miles (without the Magna loop), covers 23 bus stops (in both directions), and links riders to light rail. The 3500 South BRT line was launched on July 14, 2008. UTA has purchased 10 MAX buses from Belgian manufacturer, Van Hool, and they are assigned to the 3500 South BRT line. The buses are equipped with full stainless steel frames and body panels, top mounted cooling systems, 330 horsepower Cummins ISL motors, object detection systems, and full low-floor boarding capabilities. Wider aisles, center Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) boarding, more windows, unique European styling, and improved ride quality will further enhance the riding experience for passengers. In addition to providing an improved riding experience, these key components will reduce vehicle maintenance and extend vehicle life. BRT buses will also have a new and unique paint scheme, which will give identity to the new "MAX" system. UTA wants to assess the consequence of the decision and directed that a survey be conducted to find out if and to what extent the MAX meets customers' preferences. The survey was conducted in three segments: (1) a survey of passenger values related to vehicle attributes, (2) a comparative survey between the MAX and other buses, and (3) an operator survey.

• Record URL:
  http://www.ugpti.org/resources/reports/details.php?id=654
• 
• Supplemental Notes:
  • This document is disseminated under the sponsorship of the Department of Transportation, University Transportation Centers program.
• Corporate Authors:

  Mountain-Plains Consortium

  North Dakota State University
  Fargo, ND  United States  58108
• Authors:
  • Stevanovic, Aleksandar
  • Zlatkovic, Milan
  • Nadimpalli, Bhagavan Raju
• Publication Date: 2009-6

Language

• English

Media Info

• Media Type: Digital/other
• Features: Appendices; Figures; References; Tables;
• Pagination: 45p

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Alternatives analysis; Bus rapid transit; Consumer preferences; Customer satisfaction; Evaluation and assessment; Surveys; Transit riders
• Geographic Terms: Utah
• Subject Areas: Planning and Forecasting; Public Transportation;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 01139968
• Record Type: Publication
• Report/Paper Numbers: MPC Report No. 09-213
• Files: UTC, TRIS
• Created Date: Sep 18 2009 7:08AM