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Optimal design of intermodal mobility networks under uncertainty: Connecting micromobility with mobility-on-demand transit
Journal article   Open access   Peer reviewed

Optimal design of intermodal mobility networks under uncertainty: Connecting micromobility with mobility-on-demand transit

Qi Luo, Shukai Li and Robert C. Hampshire
EURO Journal on Transportation and Logistics, Vol.10, p.100045
2021
DOI: 10.1016/j.ejtl.2021.100045
url
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ejtl.2021.100045View
Published (Version of record) Open Access

Abstract

Mobility-on-Demand Transit (MoDT) is a suitable solution for linking packed urban centers to low-demand suburban areas. Meanwhile, micromobility services, including dockless bikesharing and electric scooters, are growing exponentially worldwide, providing a low-cost, low-emission travel mode for short home-based trips. We propose an intermodal network in which travelers use micromobility for the first-/last-mile connections to MoDT. The optimal design of the intermodal network is formulated as a two-stage stochastic program with a revenue-maximization objective. The first stage solves the near-optimal transfer hub locations, and the second stage considers the integrated operations of the micromobility and MoDT vehicle fleet. This work contributes to the MoD literature by addressing how to coordinate the intermodal transfers and improve the utilization of vehicles with uncertain demand. The movements of these vehicles are modeled as an interconnected closed queueing network with time lags. A new starter-follower model captures the rearranged ride-pooling behavior at these selected transfer hubs. We implement this network design method to evaluate the benefit of combining a bikesharing and a MoDT network in New York City. This paper provides a systematic method for designing intermodal mobility networks, laying the foundation for multimodal mobility applications. •First-/last-mile micromobility connections supplement mobility-on-demand transit.•Intermodal networks manage two vehicle fleets by starter-follower assignment.•Optimal mobility network design robust to demand uncertainty and design constraints.
Mobility-on-demand transit Multimodal transportation Urban services and mobility

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