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What transit mode will work for Ann Arbor?

The Ann Arbor Connector Feasibility Study will include an evaluation of several transit modes, depending on number of factors.  The two most important factors that affect the choice of a transit mode are land use densities and ridership estimates.  The land use densities predicted as part of the Ann Arbor Comprehensive Plan will be used as the base. Transportation models use this information as input for making predictions about traffic and transit volumes.  

The transportation model developed by the Washtenaw Area Transit Study (WATS) will be used to predict traffic volumes and transit ridership for the year 2035.

Cities like Portland, Oregon and Seattle, Washington are held up as leaders in developing and running modern transit systems and streetcars.  Their land use densities and number of riders contribute to their success.  The Ann Arbor Connector Feasibility Study will test assumptions and recommend a ‘right sized’ transit solution. The study is scheduled to be completed by December 2010.
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These are some alternative transit modes that could be considered Typical Station Spacing (Miles) Typical Operating Speed (MPH) Power Typical Daily Ridership Capacity per Vehicle (Seats/Total) Typical Capital Cost Per Mile (Millions$)

Standard Bus

Standard Bus

 

 Standard buses generally operate in mixed flow on city streets 0.25 10 to 25 Diesel 100 to 5,000 40/70 Less than $0.5

Bus Rapid Transit

Bus Rapid Transit

 

 BRT is an integrated system of facilities, services, and amenities that collectively improves the speed, reliability and identity of bus transit. Generally operates at least partially in exclusive right of way with frequent service. 0.5 to 1.0 20 to 55 Diesel /Hybrid 5,000 to 10,000 55/105 $2 to $20

Trolley or Streetcar

Trolley or Streetcar

 

 A trolley or streetcar generally operates in mixed flow on city streets with power provided by overhead wires. Generally intended for shorter trips with frequent stops. 0.25 10 to 25 Electric Overhead Wire 5,000 to 10,000 35/115 $10 to $30

Light Rail Transit

Light Rail Transit

 

 A moderate to high capacity transit system operating 2 to 3 car trains in semi-exclusive right of way with power provided by overhead wires. 0.5 to 1.0 20 to 55 Electric Overhead Wire 10,000 to 40,000 75/150 $20 to $60

Commuter Rail

Commuter Rail

 

 A moderate to high capacity transit system operating on existing freight rail tracks with service concentrated during the morning and evening commute periods. 5 20 to 80 Diesel 5,000 to 150,000 75/150 $5 to $20

Circular Bus/Trolley

Circulator Bus/Trolley

 

 A low capacity system that acts to supplement the transit infrastructure. Generally these are not fixed track and may include paratransit operations or tourist oriented trolleys. 0.25 10 to 25 Diesel 100 to 2,000 20/35 Less than $0.5

Automated People Mover

Automated People Mover

 

 A moderate to low capacity transit system that generally operates on an elevated guideway over a limited distance. Vehicles are automated and generally operate on a fixed headway throughout the day. Includes a variety of emerging technologies including monorail and personal rapid transit. 0.5 10 to 25 Electric (Guideway) 2,000 to 5,000 0 to 20 / 8 to 30 $30 to $50