Benefits and Costs

The majority of benefits accrue to transit users when communications improve reliability and on-time performance. Communications systems also enhance the safety and security of the bus operators and travelers. Communications technologies have not led to capital cost savings such as fleet reductions; however, operating cost savings are possible if communications systems are used to improve adherence to schedules and vehicle-use efficiency and to provide smooth data exchange.

• The Ann Arbor Transportation Authority (AATA) reported an on-time departure rate nearly doubled over a two year period after the upgrade of its communication system, which included new MDTs.
• The AATA also experienced a 70% drop in voice traffic with the installment of MDTs.
• Denver's Regional Transit District (RTD) decreased early arrivals by 12% and late arrivals by 21% after deploying MDTs, AVL and an upgrade to their radio network.

Other Possible Benefits

• Decreased emergency response time.
• Improved customer satisfaction and ridership through better on-time performance.
• Greater coordination with other regional transit / transportation providers with integrated or interoperable communications networks.

Communication system deployment costs can incorporate many components, including dispatch center hardware and software, data computers, field transmittal devices such as radio towers and fiber optic cable, and in-vehicle hardware and software such as radio, MDTs, AVL-GPS and other integrated systems. When considering costs for a new communications system or system upgrades, do not forget to account for hidden costs. Factors such as driver and operator training, data storage, and equipment maintenance and support all should be considered as part of the cost of operation.

Equipment and Implementation

• Pierce Transit of Tacoma, WA paid $3,600 for the purchase and installation of each of its MDT units.
• In 1999, AATA paid $9,106 per bus to install MDTs and related equipment on 75 buses and $200 per bus for the hardware components of an 800 MHz radio system.

Operations and Maintenance (O&M)

• Expect monthly or annual fees from equipment vendors for MDT system software support.
• Fees are also applicable for use of proprietary cellular networks.

Training

• For MDT staff training, expect an average of 4 hours of training for each vehicle operator.