Name
Geospatial Assessment of the Rea Vaya Bus Rapid Transit System in Johannesburg, South Africa
Description
As African cities undergo rapid urbanization, governments are increasingly adopting Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) systems amidst informal public transportation to enhance mobility and restructure their informal transport networks. Johannesburg’s Rea Vaya BRT, the first of its kind on the continent, was introduced in two phases (Phase 1A and Phase 1B) to improve public transport efficiency and for spatial integration in the city while restructuring existing transit networks, particularly the minibus taxi services. However, the spatial dynamics of these BRT systems remain underexamined.
This study presents a geospatial assessment of the Rea Vaya BRT system, evaluating various aspects of its operations, performance, accessibility, and equity in Johannesburg. Using the Rea Vaya BRT’s General Transit Feed Specification (GTFS), OpenStreetMap (OSM) data, and the City of Johannesburg’s road network data, the research employs spatial analysis techniques to identify accessibility gaps and variations in service provision, offering insights into the system’s geographic reach and efficiency. It utilizes Geographic Information System (GIS) to assess the Rea Vaya’s network connectivity, route structures, service coverage, service distribution, service frequency, and travel time variations.
By examining the spatial and temporal aspects of the BRT network, this study contributes to a deeper understanding of transport equity and urban mobility in African cities. The findings provide insights for policymakers and urban planners seeking to optimize BRT systems for inclusive and sustainable urban transport development.
Session Type
Poster
Abstract ID
205
Speaker Name
Oforiwaa Pee Agyei-Boakye
Speaker Organization
University of Minnesota Twin Cities