Shared mobility and last mile connectivity to mass transit system : willingness for intermodal ridesharing in Bangkok

Abstract

Improving accessibility to urban transit systems can increase their cost-efficiency. In a large city like Bangkok, mass transit systems are essential but suffer from limitations in accessibility, especially during the first and last mile of a trip. To encourage greater usage of the system, it is important to understand passenger behavior regarding access to the transit system. Feeder systems need to be planned to carry passengers to and from the mass transit system. In this study, data were collected using the State Preference Survey method, and paratransit was added to the current modes of travel, which included walking, motorcycle taxis, taxis, and buses. A multinomial logistic model was used to analyze the key factors in choosing the feeder for first and last mile travel of mass transit system passengers. The results showed that passengers prioritized travel time, waiting time, and travel cost, respectively. Paratransit could be an essential service that improves travel quality and eases traffic problems in Bangkok, provided it can meet passengers' needs. Implication of the thesis: An urban transit system can be made more cost-efficient by improving its accessibility. The last mile problem describes the difficulty in getting people from a transportation hub to their destination and is an important component of the overall quality experienced by a transit user. New technologies like shared and on-demand transport modes can reduce the time, cost and waiting time of passengers, and better understanding of traveller behaviour is important to justify the appropriate service for the selected area.