BRT [AMMAN PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION]
In simple terms, “BRT is a flexible, permanently-integrated package of rapid transit elements with a quality image and distinct identity” (Diaz, 2009: 26). This definition highlights BRT‟s flexibility and the fact that it encompasses a wide variety of applications, each one tailored to a particular set of travel markets and physical environments (Diaz, 2009).
4.3 BRT elements, system performance and system benefits 4.3.1 Introduction This section explores BRT through a progression of three different perspectives. Firstly, seven major elements of BRT are presented along with their respective features and attributes. Secondly, key BRT system performance attributes and important benefits of integrated BRT systems are identified. Thirdly, the BRT elements are related to attributes of system performance. The section then concludes by an assessment of experience with BRT system performance. BRT elements, system performance and system benefits are shown in Figure 1 below. It is important to note that BRT systems are built by choosing and integrating among BRT elements. The integration of elements, in turn, improves system performance and the experience for customers. Improvements to system performance (in combination with features of BRT elements) generate benefits to transit agencies as well as communities (Diaz, 2009).
Major Elements of BRT • • • • • 4.3.2 • •
Running Ways Stations Vehicles Fare Collection ITS Major Elements of BRT Service and Operations Plan Branding Elements
System Performance • • • • • •
Travel Time Savings Reliability Identity and Image Safety and Security Capacity Accessibility
System Performance • • • • • •
Travel Time Savings Reliability Identity and Image Safety and Security Capacity Accessibility
Figure 1: BRT elements, system performance and system benefits Source: Diaz (2009)
4.4 What BRT is and what it is not 4.4.1 What BRT is There is uncertainty among elected officials and even some transit professionals about what BRT is and how it differs from conventional bus services and systems. While this question is difficult to answer, in part because the options available for each BRT element are so extensive that there are an infinite variety of integrated BRT systems (Diaz, 2009), it can be said with much confidence that BRT is far more than just a bus (Wright, 2004). Wright (2004) ascertains that while BRT utilizes rubber-tired vehicles, it has little else in common with standard bus services and systems. Under its current definition, BRT is “a systematically coordinated service, fully integrated with other modes in a community”. Unlike conventional bus services and systems which rely on fairly standard equipment and operating procedures, BRT involves the following: • Rolling stock of improved design; • Expanded physical facilities, including possibly preferential or exclusive lanes; • Upgraded operational procedures, ranging from fare collection to traffic signals; and • Advanced information and control methods, relying mostly on intelligent transportation systems.
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