AN ANALYSIS OF SUBSCRIPTION BUS EXPERIENCE

Abstract

Subscription bus services are specialized bus services tailored to serve urban travelers who patronize them on a regular basis. Subscription bus services are organized by private operators, community groups, employers, public officials or transit authorities to fill a need not adequately addressed by conventional mass transit. This article analyzes ten subscription bus services to identify characteristics that are critical to successful operations. These characteristics are: (1) a relatively large concentration of at least 50 fairly long trips with proximate origins or destinations and common, regular schedules; (2) a dedicated organizational body to formulate the service and manage it on a continuing basis; (3) a convenient source of buses and drivers; (4) a high degree of service reliability; (5) careful attention to regulatory requirements; (6) continual adjustment of routes and schedules in response to changes in demand; (7) personalized features such as guaranteed seating, door-to-door service and express rides. A cost analysis is also provided.