Advanced Technology and Integrated Public Transit: San Gabriel Valley Smart Shuttle Field Operational Test

Abstract

Results of the San Gabriel Valley Smart Shuttle (SGVSS) field operational test (FOT) are presented. Results are drawn from a comprehensive evaluation of the FOT conducted over a 3-year period. The SGVSS attempted to integrate services of three local municipal public transit operators and a regional fixed-route operator via networked computer-assisted dispatching, automated vehicle location, and mobile data terminals. The integrated system was never fully deployed. The history of the project is described, and an analysis of the FOT is presented. Outcomes are explained by the following: (a) origination of the project in a different location and with a different service concept, (b) time and budget constraints imposed by the original FOT, (c) limited commitment on the part of some project participants, (d) lack of clear project goals and objectives, (e) software and hardware technical problems, and (f) problems with contracting and management. The FOT provides many insights into the challenges of service integration. Lessons learned are described.

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