Effect of real-time transit information on dynamic path choice of passengers

Real-time information (RTI) is increasingly being implemented in transit networks worldwide. The evaluation of the effect of RTI requires dynamic modeling of transit operations and of passenger path choices. The authors present a dynamic transit analysis and evaluation tool that represents timetables, operation strategies, RTI, adaptive passenger choices, and traffic dynamics at the network level. Transit path choices are modeled as a sequence of boarding, walking, and alighting decisions that passengers undertake when carrying out their journey. The model was applied to the Metro network area of Stockholm, Sweden, under various operating conditions and information provision scenarios, as a proof of concept. An analysis of results indicated substantial path choice shifts and potential time savings associated with more comprehensive RTI provision and transfer coordination improvements.