Bus priority measures have been implemented in London, UK, to improve bus speed and reliability. The Bus Priority Flagship Team studied the primary influences on bus journey times and reliability using a range of VISSIM microsimulation models. The study was conducted on a section of route 149, Kingsland Road, Hackney. The model results are discussed with reference to junction timings, bus lanes, and kerbside activity and enforcement. These showed that traffic signal timings had the most impact on journey times and that bus lanes provided the most benefits under congested conditions. Kerbside activity and compliance with kerbside controls could have an impact on journey times. These priority measures were introduced onto Bus Route 149 progressively from 2000 and the effects of the different measures were monitored. It was shown that a successful approach would seek to include improvements at traffic signal junctions, provision of bus lanes and control of kerbside activity.
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