The paper reports work performed to determine the accuracy of two methods of counting bus riders (by onboard and by roadside observers), and to provide estimates of the errors inherent in the procedures. Bus riders were counted by both methods at selected locations on a screen line in San Francisco. Based on statistical estimates of error, it was concluded that the standard counting procedure, using roadside observers, contributed relatively little to the overall variability of the data. The largest source of variation, and the one that controlled required sample sizes, was the normal fluctuation of ridership between buses. It was estimated that five-day samples taken in two observation periods would be required to permit the detection, on the average, of a 10% change in total daily ridership crossing a single screen line station. Pooling data would permit the detection of smaller differences. The analysis also led to improved control of field procedures and data quality.
Transit Passenger Counts, Errors, Controls, Analysis
1974
52 pages
Report
No indication
English
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