Advanced network planning for bus rapid transit: the quickway model as a modal alternative to light rail lite
Transit planning in the United States has tended toward viewing BRT as an analogue to light rail transit, with similar operating patterns. This model, referred to as "Light Rail Lite,' is compared to international best practices, which have often favored the development of a grade-separated bus infrastructure ("Quickways') that in turn supports a varied mix of all-stops, express, and branching services. This model, dubbed the Quickway model, evolved out of the practical necessity of cities to meet ambitious ridership or mode split targets. The two models are contrasted along the key dimensions of BRT service, and significant differences are identified. Three international case studies