Redesigning Bus Transit in Worcester, Massachusetts

Abstract

The goal of this project was to improve bus service for the people of Worcester by improving the Worcester Regional Transit Authority’s (WRTA) bus frequency and reliability within the system, enhancing route transfers across the city, elevating the user experience, and boosting ridership. This study analyzed the current bus service system of the WRTA using Geographic Information Systems (GIS) analysis as well as in-person site visits. GIS analyses included distance to bus stops, using both buffers and isochrones, ridership by stop, and frequency and efficiency of bus route travel. The group also used AutoCAD to create mock-ups of potential sites for Mini-Hubs—locations that would facilitate cross-system travel. This project was designed to create tangible and implementable results