Tram stops in streetcar environments present safety, accessibility and transport efficiency challenges. With 245 track kms (152 miles) Melbourne, Australia has one of the worlds largest tram systems. Some 68% is operated in streetcar conditions. 1,200 of Melbourne's tram stops are 'kerbside' stops where passengers wait at the kerb. Road traffic stops when trams arrive so passengers can get to/from trams operating in the centre of mostly 2 by 2 lane roads. Some 25 road accidents p.a. result because no pedestrian protection from traffic is provided. These stops have no platforms or lifts and thus act as a barrier to access for persons with disabilities. Providing platforms would be expensive and is not feasible in most cases. These stops also act to slow traffic and trams because passenger access temporarily closes streets, causing traffic queues. Tram as well as road traffic speeds are reduced by between 8-12% as a result. An alternative solution to tram stop design is clearly required. This paper describes a new tram stop design termed the 'easy access stop'. The design incorporates a speed hump/cushion which also acts as a platform to both enable level boarding access to low floor trams and slow passing traffic. The design has proven a cost effective means of enabling safe tram stop access in streetcar style conditions. The paper reviews international experience with streetcar style stops and identifies the context for tram stop design. It describes the new design and outlines its impact and performance.
Abstract