Bus: Bus Stop Planning

Bus Stop Planning

Primary Guidance Bus stops locations should be evaluated based on the following factors Bus stops are usually placed at major intersections, transfer points, and major passenger generators The minimum distance between bus stops varies according to the service type, adjacent land use, population/employment density, and topography

Discussion Bus Stop Locations Providing bus stops on new or existing routes requires additional capital and operating costs for each stop and increases travel time for customers. Therefore, planning bus stop locations should consider the following factors to determine if a bus stop is warranted: Improves service quality and reliability Maximizes access to high-frequency transit Strengthens intermodal connections Aligns with existing or emerging employment, education and other community related services ADA accessibility between the service point and the passenger destinations / generators Bus Stop Spacing and Positioning Bus stops are spaced to balance accessibility reliability. Close spacing of bus stops shortens walk distance for passengers, but increases transit trip time due to more stops and starts by the buses. Bus stops are usually placed at major intersections, transfer points, and major passenger generators. Unless dictated by the Bus Stop Locations factors above, the minimum distance between bus stops varies according to the service type: Closer bus stop spacing (1/4 mile or less) is appropriate where adjacent land uses and population/employment densities warrant In lower density residential and commercial areas, bus stop spacing should be no greater than ½ mile distance between stops Pedestrian elements such as sidewalks, curb ramps, and lighting may dictate bus stop spacing along a corridor Topography as stops may be placed closer together uphill versus downhill For suburban-suburban or suburban-urban express bus routes, the only bus stop spacing needed is in the distribution portion of the route. Distribution stops should generally be spaced about every 2 to 3 blocks in major activity centers or where demand warrants (major ridership generators). See Also Bus Stop Design Practical Design Implementation Guidance