Influence of the bus routes layout on urban noise

Abstract

The promotion of green public transport will require significant investments to replace the conventional bus units that circulate in our cities. The introduction of electric buses could require a review of the routes. A macroscopic traffic simulation platform for transport planning is the key tool for comparing bus routes using sustainability as the basis for decision-making. In public transport, sustainability means a multidimensional commitment that considers the efficiency of the transport service, but also profitability, road safety, environmental impact, social function, etc. Many performance indicators measure the quality of service for each dimension as a direct result of the traffic simulation. This study focuses on the design of a future noise annoyance indicator that will be implemented in GIS and that will allow an analysis and optimization of the annoyance in the city. This elaboration will help to identify those routes where the shift to electric vehicles will be a priority for noise mitigation.