Urban Mobility Modeling in PTV Visum with Various Options for Bus Fare Structure

The study focused on applying linear and non-additive fare structure models to simulate flat fares with a set of constraints for each fare model that can be used on public transport in real-world conditions. To this end, a method for modeling flat fares using PTV Visum software, specifically the origin-destination fare model, has been developed. The impedance function, which is used in the public transport headway-based assignment, is determined to minimize deviations between actual and calculated passenger volumes for bus routes using SQV statistics. The case study aims to develop a method for modeling flat fares within PTV Visum to predict and analyze passenger traffic on municipal bus routes in the Ukrainian city of Kryvyi Rih in the case of implementing flat fares for these routes. Two options were modeled: the current situation with a flat fare of UAH 15 (EUR 0.35) for bus routes run by private operators and fare-free public transit for municipal bus routes, and an anticipated scenario with a flat fare of UAH 15 (EUR 0.35) for bus routes operated by private companies and a flat fare of 8 UAH (0.18 EUR) for municipal bus routes. These evaluations provide insight into passenger flows on municipal bus routes under the existing fare option and in the case of implementing a charge for municipal transport in Kryvyi Rih. Obtaining results of passenger volumes and devising an approach to fare modeling is crucial for transportation sector decision-makers, aiding in the development of effective fare strategies within the city.