BUS OR LIGHT RAIL: MAKING THE RIGHT CHOICE - A FINANCIAL, OPERATIONAL AND DEMAND COMPARISON OF LIGHT RAIL, GUIDED BUSES, BUSWAYS AND BUS LANES

This book provides an evaluation of the experience of existing light rail, guided bus, busway and bus lane systems regarding current plans for expanding the role of public transport generally. The evaluation covers technical and financial aspects, together with results of surveys on the attitudes and judgements of passengers and car users. The second edition includes substantial revision and updating of most of the facts, tables of data and policy instruments since the 2000 edition. More information on guided buses is now available. Light rail remains the favourite mode in Europe and the USA, particularly for strategic transformation of urban transport in cities. Bus lanes are rarely provided with the extensive network of priorities that are necessary for them to reach their full potential. Technical aspects of the transport modes, comparative costs, complementary measures to promote the use of public transport, the level of transfer from car to public transport, the suitability of modes for city centre use, and public attitudes are discussed. It is suggested that strictly enforced bus lanes could be as efffective as guided busways and are considerably cheaper to install.