Transit in Montgomery County

Authors

Christian Anthony Acosta, Scott Corbett Gallagher, Melanie Elizabeth Laberge, Matthew K. Townsend

Sponsor

Montogmery County

Advisors

Joshua Rosenstock, Mustapha S. Fofana

Term

October – December 2011

Project Outcomes

Prediction Algorithm

Final Report

Abstract

This project improved the reliability of Montgomery County, Maryland’s public bus system by analyzing the system’s bus arrival prediction software with respect to operator behavior between bus trips. Through a series of interviews and data analysis, this behavior was quantified into an algorithm that would better account for schedule deviations between bus trips, making predictions more accurate for customers. Operator concerns with the bus schedule and future improvements to the algorithm were also documented to further enhance system reliability.