Value of Information for Transit Riders

Abstract

Transit information systems are crucial for informing riders of their location, destination, and arrival time. After reviewing and classifying the various types of transit information systems, an adaptive stated preference survey was developed and administered to determine the value of information for transit users. The survey consisted of two scenarios which included a picture and a written description. In a series of nine questions, participants were given the choice of a higher fare that included more transit information or a lower fare with less or no information. The average increase in fare for improved transit information was $0.83. An OLS model was developed based on the demographic information from respondents. Females, people between the ages of 20 and 30, and those with higher income were willing to pay the most for improved transit information. Respondents who were regular transit users and who lived far from where they worked were willing to pay the least.

Keywords: Transit information systems, transit, transportation, cost

JEL Classification: R40, R41