Stopping patterns of train services

Abstract

The train network is a vital link within the mobility chain. Several aspects in the mobility chain are changing, for example the alternatives in modes and the trip types of passengers. The rail network with the vital locations as stations and the operation of the services on the network seem to be less adaptive, while the travel behaviour of passengers seem to change due to developments in access and egress, Additionally, the use of the train network differs per region. This could result in a mismatch between the network design and the way passengers use the network, i.e. the travel behaviour of passengers. This research will perform a qualitative and quantitative network analysis on two different case studies to obtain insights into influence of the network design on the travel times and station choice. These case studies are the Stedenbaan Zuid and the Veluwelijn, which both show different demand and network characteristics. Both case studies reveal different results in terms of travel times for the network variants, due to the differences in demand characteristics. The differences in the effect of the network design of the case studies could be assigned to the demand characteristics. In network design, the usage by the passenger should be leading. Yet, the location of the network and the stop density could contribute to passengers changing their travel behaviour based on the network design. Additionally, the intended goals of the operator and relevant stakeholders should be known, as this can change the evaluation of the network design.