Transit Network Optimization Method Based on BRT Attracting Region: A Case Study of Changzhou

There are two approaches in common transit network optimization (TNO) research: if only adjusting routes, the network may lack integration; otherwise, network adjusting would reduce the operability. To overcome these problems, this paper proposed a TNO method based on research in City of Changzhou. First, bus routes in BRT attracting regions were found and classified according to their position relationship, influence extent and function split. Then optimal schemes of each route were generated using some optimization methods. Second, the concept of key nodes was proposed for the first time. The network was rebuilt by expectation line search. Optimal schemes were established after schemes were screened. Finally, schemes comparison was conducted according to the optimal objective function and the optimum solution was determined. The method was applied for BRT No.2 in City of Changzhou. The results show that the passenger flow volumes are greatly increased.