Summary

Transit signal priority (TSP) is an operational strategy that facilitates the movement of in-service vehicles through signalized intersections, critical for the development of Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) systems and the improvement of traditional transit services. Unfortunately, TSP has not seen widespread deployment for two reasons: the concern of traffic operation authorities that frequent TSP operations deteriorate the performance of signal control optimized for traffic flow, and the capital cost for outfitting the TSP system.

California PATH, in collaboration with Caltrans and San Mateo Transit District (Samtrans), have coordinated research and developed an Adaptive TSP (ATSP) system where Global Positioning Systems (GPS) are instrumented on buses for monitoring bus movements and predicting bus arrival times. This will be tested in this two-year research project.

First year research seeks to improve and refine the ATSP system to make it suitable for large-scale implementation. The second year is dedicated to the performance of field tests, installing the system at multiple intersections along El Camino Real and on several buses. From these field tests, the impacts of the system will be evaluated through data analysis and interviews with personnel from Samtrans and city traffic authorities.

Related PATH Articles/Journals

(None Published)