Propensity to Switch to a New Bus Service in Phnom Penh Using Stated Preference Analysis

Abstract

With high number of motorcycles, traffic congestion in Phnom Penh is inevitable. In addition, a formal public transport such as bus service is not yet available. In order to introduce an efficient bus service, an understanding of passengers' behavior towards bus service attributes is necessary. In this study commuters' stated behavior towards a new bus service is investigated using a systematic experimental design and stated preference analysis. Several bus service attributes are considered, namely, bus fare, bus headway, walking time, and bus comfort. Statistical models are developed to analyze passengers' trade-offs between each attribute and to shed some lights on factors contributing to potential mode change. The findings of this research are expected to further the understanding of passengers' viewpoint on bus service attributes and the results can be used in strategic planning for establishing a proper bus service in the city.