Transit Part 6: Defining and Using Geo Codes

A Geo Code, as I am using the term in this document, is a way to refer to a geographic area that is defined by specific boundaries.  Dividing a transit providers overall service area into geo code areas can be a valuable tool to assist in defining where hubs will be located, and what area each hub will provide service to.


When beginning the process of breaking a service area into smaller geo codes, I recommend following a process that I will define in a series of steps.  You will want to use a full-sized map of the service area and have a few felt tip pens (with different colors) to draw boundary lines on the map with.  You will want to use a new color for each of these steps.

First, using a full sized map of the service area, begin by identifying things like rivers, lakes, and other natural objects that would limit or prevent a bus from easily crossing from one side to the other.  These natural objects are logical boundaries that should be marked.

Second, identify man-made objects that also have limited ability to cross over such as railroad tracks and freeways.  These man-made objects are also logical boundaries and should be marked.

Third, identify major and secondary arterial roads that have not already been marked in step two.  These are the busiest “surface” streets and are almost always posted with speed limits faster than normal residential speeds.  These are also logical boundaries because during rush hour traffic, these are your “hard to cross” roads.  You should mark these roads.  I suggest that you not use the same color used in steps one and two.

Finally, identify locations such as major shopping centers and other locations that would most likely be best served using the Special Event Bus part of my program.  Draw a boundary around or put a clear dot on each of these locations using another new color you haven’t used in steps 1-3.

In some kind of logical manner, give each area that is surrounded by the marker lines you have drawn a unique name (or number).

Make a list that identifies the names and boundaries of each of these “geo code areas you have identified using the above steps.

Your map is now ready to be used as a tool in the process of deciding where your hubs will need to be, and what area each hub will provide service to.

Thank you for taking time to read my program.  Obviously, if I didn't believe in my own program, I would not have published it for others to read and ponder on.

An Opinion Article by Dave Kemper
                   _________________________________

It has been said that: "One definition of insanity is to do the same thing, the same way, over and over and over again, each time expecting to achieve a different result."
Therefore, we must either CHANGE the way we live, or we bind our future to our past as if with CHAINS.
"I do not consider myself to be better than anyone else.  But I do believe in exercising my right to not stay stupid."

David W. Kemper, Author
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