Research Reports
Report Details

Title:	Innovative Approach to Estimating Demand for Intercity Bus Services in a Rural Environment
Authors:	Jeremy Mattson
Publication Date:	Dec 2016
TRID #:	01646639
Keywords:	choice models, innovation, intercity bus lines, logits, mode choice, rural areas, stated preferences, travel demand
Type:	Research Report

Abstract

Because existing models have their limitations, there is a significant need for a model to estimate demand for intercity bus services, especially in rural areas. The general objective of this research was to develop an intercity mode choice model that can be incorporated into a statewide travel demand model to estimate demand for rural intercity bus services. Four intercity transportation modes were considered in the study: automobile, bus, rail, and air. A stated preference survey was conducted of individuals across the state of North Dakota, and a mixed logit model was developed to estimate a mode choice model. Results from the mode choice model showed the significant impacts of individual, trip, and mode characteristics on choice of mode. Gender, age, income, disability, trip purpose, party size, travel time, travel cost, and access distance were all found to have significant impacts on mode choice, and traveler attitudes were also found to be important. The study demonstrated how the mode choice model can be incorporated into a statewide travel demand model, and intercity bus mode shares were estimated for origin-destination pairs within the state. Alternative scenarios were analyzed to show how mode shares would change under different conditions or service characteristics. This study was conducted in the largely rural state of North Dakota, but results could be transferable to other areas with similar geographic characteristics.

How to Cite

Mattson, Jeremy. Innovative Approach to Estimating Demand for Intercity Bus Services in a Rural Environment. University of South Florida, Tampa: National Center for Transit Research, 2016.