Analysis and Implications of Tram Line Network Planning Characteristics in Brunswick, Germany

Abstract

[Objective] Tram network is the only urban rail transit system in Brunswick, Germany, serving as the backbone of the city′s public transportation system. Summarizing the key features of the expansion project planning phase in the current network initiated in 2013 holds significant implications for tram planning and construction in China. [Method] By analyzing the main content of the network expansion project planning phase, an overview of the applied guiding principles and methodologies is provided. [Result & Conclusion] The line network planning research process is divided into three stages, focusing on route scheme selection, passenger flow benefit assessment, and economic benefit evaluation. These stages culminate in the determination of the network structure and route corridors, providing a foundation for subsequent route design. Additionally, the preliminary allocation of investment subsidies by various levels of government, and sources of the construction funds for the project are determined based on the right of way format. The primary characteristics of the network planning phase work and the implications for China include: a firm commitment to the ′public transportation priority′ development strategy, with context-specific construction of a clear-layered public transportation system featuring trams as the backbone and conventional buses as supplements; establishing a robust hierarchical financial support system to ensure financial security for the project construction; ensuring exclusive rights of way for trams to enhance service quality; a comprehensive consideration of the impact of tram construction on the entire urban transportation system; focusing on the economic benefit analysis of tram projects, providing quantitative basis for decision-making.

Keywords

• tram
• brunswick
• line network planning
• planning characteristic