Vulnerability of Transportation Networks: The New York City Subway System under Simultaneous Disruptive Events

Abstract This paper addresses the topic of transportation network vulnerability within the context of the New York City subway system. We propose a network model for it and an approach based on shortest-path passenger flow simulations in order to quantify delays experienced by passengers arising from disruptive events, particularly from those that occur simultaneously. We determine if and to what extent the effect under such simultaneous scenarios is greater than it would be had the same disruptions occurred as separate events. Our findings can be useful in supporting the planning decisions necessary to prepare for the harmful consequences arising from disruptions to complex urban networks.