managing travel for planned special events - FHWA Operations ...

Transit ServiceModifications to existing transit service for aspecial event represent TDM strategies. Thefocus of the public transit agency is to increaseridership during the event by increasingthe attractiveness of the service that itprovides. In many locations and for manytypes of special events, additional ridershipto and from special event sites can providesubstantial additional revenue for the transitsystem at little additional cost. Also, transitsystem use may relieve traffic congestionaround the venue.Table 3-32 contains a summary of transitservice strategies.Pre-Trip Traveler InformationVarious traveler information techniques areused to disseminate information to the public,including both event patrons and nonattendeeroad users, so they can be betterinformed when planning their trip to aplanned special event, or around an event.Table 3-33 lists techniques used to providepre-trip information to the traveling public.The primary function of pre-trip informationinvolves assisting drivers with decisions regardingroute planning, travel mode, and thetime of day to travel. Accurate pre-triptravel information will provide benefits toall transportation system users in the form oftime and cost savings.Pertinent information that event patrons maywant before beginning their trip include:• Best driving route to the venue fromspecific origins (e.g., cities or freeways)• Best public transit route• Parking area locations and parking fees,access to disabled parking spaces, andtimes that the parking areas open beforethe event• Recommended event ingress and egressroutes, particularly if different for arrivalsand departuresSTRATEGYPublic transitserviceexpansionExpress busserviceCharterserviceTransitservicemarketingTable 3-32Transit Service StrategiesTECHNIQUES• Maximize use of public transit.o Existing service with additional vehicle hourso Modifying existing service by creating a route deviation with a stop near the eventvenueo Implementation of an express service to establish a special purpose route to and fromthe event site• Discourage event patrons from driving their vehicles to the event site due to expected siteparking deficiencies and anticipated roadway congestion.o Using express bus service between a park and ride facility or remote parking lot andevent venueo Using park and ride lots that best intercept spectator traffic as it approaches the eventsite.• Use a contract service to provide transportation directly to the event site from outlying areas(e.g., other neighborhoods and cities).• Consider both charter bus operations as well as charter rail service.• Establish a comprehensive transit marketing program.o Informing the public of the availability of public transit service to/from the eventvenueo Convincing the public to use the service3-46