Time Sensitive: Comparing Time-Based and Spatial Integration in Public Transportation in Curitiba

Abstract

Curitiba (Brazil) was one of the first cities in Latin America to implement an integrated transport network, where users can move between any points in it while paying just one fare. But what this integration really offers is the possibility to transfer with no extra charge only between specific lines in specific points, and this geographic relation characterizes a spatial integration. This study analyzes the impacts of implementing a time-based integration in Curitiba’s public transit system, which could provide a full system integration, in comparison with the spatial integration provided and individual transport. Data on public transit bus trips from a previous user survey conducted in the city were utilized. The different scenarios were simulated using an algorithm that has considered travel time, distance traveled, existing infrastructure demand, and the number of connections needed at terminals and tube stations. Our findings indicate that time-based integration would reduce travel time, distance traveled, and unnecessary trips and displacements compared with trips that only involve spatial fare integration.

Keywords: public transport, integration system, scenario simulation, BRT, Curitiba