In recent years impressive, and sometimes spectacular, results have been achieved in attracting peak period commuters to reliable and convenient express bus service. This paper deals with special subsets of express commuter service, the subscription bus and subscription van. Subscription service is extremely popular in places where it has been attempted for commuter trips over 10 miles in length or to suburban work locations. The service works well in areas that do not have sufficient density for fixed route, fixed schedule transit. Most subscription service is organised by private groups often in the face of restrictive regulatory, legal and institutional constraints. The fact that they have been successful indicates a huge potential for commuter subscription services if they were offered as part of the transportation system for an urban area. The paper describes several types of subscription bus and subscription van services. Where possible cost and revenue data are presented for comparison purposes. Recommendations are made to improve the climate for the growth of subscription service. Although the role of subscription service will be to complement and supplement other transit services, it can have a significant impact on commuter travel and should be seriously considered as part of any urban transportation system. (Author/Publisher)
Abstract