Creating a demand-responsive transport system
Summary
New and flexible transport systems can improve access for residents of peri-urban areas where population density and demand are low.
Implementing sustainable mobility
Demand-responsive transport systems (DRTS) are innovative, non-conventional public services applicable in areas of low demand, for example municipalities or villages at a distance from the main road network, bus stops and stations, and characterised by low population density and low mobility levels.
Given the mobility situation within the municipality of Potenza (with a dispersed population and demand for mobility links between the historical centre and the suburban zones), it was proposed to implement a “dial-a-ride” public service to serve the province of Potenza, as part of CIVITAS SMILE.
The aim was to support interchange and integration between the DRTS and other transport systems within the city in order to improve accessibility for peri-urban users. Additional benefits would be to reduce travel time; reduce traffic volumes; and improve air quality.
Progress
Activities included drafting agreements with local transport companies currently operating in the area and identifying target interchanges, routes and stops. Transport personnel were trained and events were organised to promote the service among residents of low population density areas.
Outcomes
The DRTS measure could not be implemented during the period of the SMILE project. However, the route was defined, the management software identified and conditions created for implementation.
