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Many TMAs operate a shuttle system for their respective target markets. The stakeholders in this study expressed interest in forming a park n ride shuttle system to alleviate traffic coming into Providence. Below is a discussion of the costs/benefits of a shuttle system:

Costs/Benefits Analysis

A review of current shuttle systems reveals that shuttle operations costs in Providence ranges from $30-$45 per hour, depending on the level and extent of service [44]. The operation costs generally follow the economy of scale principle- as the size of the service increase, the rate of cost will decrease (up to a point) [45] . Hence, a single large shuttle system tends to be more cost effective (in terms of dollars per service hour) than individual shuttle services. Currently, Brown/RISD, Johnson and Wales, and Lifespan operate their own shuttle services. If these employers worked together and integrated their shuttles (as RISD and Brown did), they would enjoy some cost savings.

Riders will also benefit from a joint shuttle system. They could have shuttle access to places they never had before. For instance, after Brown and RISD created their SafeRide system, RISD affiliates now have access to the medical center, and Brown affiliates have access to the Downtown area. Individual institutions are limited by costs and as such, may only be able to offer a few shuttle routes. However, a group of institutions/businesses could effectively combine their resources and create an expansive shuttle system with multiple routes. This kind of joint system would give riders greater access and greater transportation freedom (without having to use their cars).

Below are three models for a shuttle system in Providence and their assumed costs.

  Hrs/day Days/wk Wks/yr Cost/hr # of Shuttles Total Annual
Shuttle Model A            
Arrives every 30 minutes on 60 minute loop; 6-10 am and 4-8 pm 8 5 52 $38 2 $158,080
             
Shuttle Model B            
Arrives every 10 minutes on 60 minute loop; 6-10 am and 4-8 pm 8 5 52 $40 6 $499,200
             
Shuttle Model C            
Arrives every 30 minutes on 60 minute loop; 7am-8pm 13 5 52 $36 2 $243,360

Using Shuttle Model B, we can determine the costs to employers. Shuttle costs can be divided among the employers in the following ways:

  • equally
  • proportionately based on number of employees and/or students

The following table illustrates the annual cost share for each employer if costs were divided proportionately:

  Employees 50% Student Population* Total Cost Share
Brown
4,450
3,715
8,165
$190,417
RISD
900
1,000
1,900
$44,310
RIH
5,323
---
5,323
$124,138
Johnson and Wales

1,200
4,818
6,018
$140,335
Total Potential Market
21,406
  
Total Operation Cost  
$499,200
Cost per person $23.32  

*Assumes that approximately 50% of students population will utilize the shuttle system. The other 50% may live oncampus and will not use the service for commuting purpose.

Summary

In summary, a shuttle service can have the following benefits:

  • Reduce parking demand in the city
  • Alleviate congestion
  • Increase mobility within the city
  • Enhance security for employees/students
  • Provide an additional travel option

A coordinated shuttle service between employers will have additional benefits:

  • Reduced cost of operations per employer
  • More service per dollar of employer contribution
  • More service = Greater mobility for employees
  • Avoid duplication of service

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