Urban Development: Why Transit Shelters Are Key to Improvement

With the emergence of new technological solutions in a diverse range of business sectors, all cities must experience changes promoting smart city development. Transit shelters are significant structures in busy cities that offer a comfortable and secure location for people to wait for buses. They provide shelter from the weather and facilitate commuting for people who use public transportation. 

Transit shelters encourage people to use public transport, making cities more sustainable. Traditional shelters have undergone several changes, becoming smart shelters, a new urban development model already adopted by many cities worldwide. This article will discuss the types of transit shelters and explain the importance of the same.

Types of Transit Shelters

Have you observed the shelters when waiting for a bus or other transport? You might have seen different shelters in different places. There are four major types of transit shelters. They are:

• AC Transit Shelter
• Benches with Overhead Shelter 
• BusQ-Shelter
• Bus Q-shelter with signing

What Makes a Great Transit Shelter?

A transit shelter should have the basic features mentioned below.

Roof

First and foremost, a shelter should protect from the weather, including the sun, rain, wind, or snow. It can be achieved by having a sufficiently extensive roof. A sloping roof should be used to avoid the accumulation of precipitation, such as rain, snow, and debris. It should create a sense of security and safety for individuals waiting for transportation and provide excellent visibility for approaching vehicles and the surrounding area. 

Side Panels

Installing side panels made of transparent glass is essential for people to see if the bus is coming to the shelter. Side panels should typically only be utilised on the curbside of the shelter if on extremely narrow streets with heavy traffic. If side panels are on the curbside, a minimum opening should be 3 feet wide to allow individuals to access the buses. It is best to install side panels 3 inches above the ground to prevent debris from accumulating inside the shelter. They will not effectively block drafts if positioned over 3 inches above the ground. 

Seating and Leaning Rails 

The number of people using the shelter and how much time they spend waiting for the bus determines the amount of seating in the shelter. When individuals wait for an extended period, or the shelter caters to the elderly or disabled, additional accommodations are generally necessary compared to areas where the bus arrives more frequently. Leaning rails should be available whenever feasible. A wooden rail positioned at a height of 3 feet 6 inches above the ground is ideal.

Lighting

Lighting should be proper in a transit shelter. Lights should be in a protective casing to decrease acts of vandalism and positioned to illuminate the waiting and boarding areas. 

Signage 

A transit shelter should have signs like bus schedules, route information, and a map. They should either be in the shelter or close to it, but not in a way that obstructs the view of the approaching bus. 

Size 

The dimensions of a transit shelter depend on the climate and the number of individuals expected to use it. (To determine the anticipated usage, calculate the number of individuals currently using a specific stop at various times of day and week.) In cases with significant variations between peak and off-peak usage, a bus shelter can be designed with inclined rails, overhangs, and seating areas outside the shelter to accommodate the differences.

Design

In terms of design, a bus shelter should use highly durable materials, such as aluminium, which is resistant to the elements and will not rust, warp, or degrade when exposed to various weather conditions. They should require minimal maintenance, resist trashing, and offer comfortable and practical seating for passengers needing assistance while waiting.  

Importance of Transit Shelters

Transit shelters help people in a lot of ways. Let’s explore the importance of transit shelters.

Ensures Security and Protection

The primary objective of a transit shelter is to protect from the elements for those waiting inside it. Bus shelters also offer a place for weary travellers to rest their legs, and by creating a designated standing area, they ensure that the sidewalk is clear for pedestrians passing by. Also, they play a crucial role in guaranteeing safety in cities. They enable citizens to connect with emergency services and access important public information.

Keep’s Informed 

In addition to the traditional route maps and schedules, modern bus shelters often include real-time information (RTI) displays. These scrolling banners provide helpful updates and are valuable if bus services are experiencing increased disruptions. 

Delivers a Positive Impact 

When travelling to a new destination by bus, the bus shelter at the stop where you get down will be one of the first things you notice. Every aspect of it – the design, cleanliness, and maintenance – therefore has the potential to shape your initial impression of that place. 

Promotes Public Transportation

Bus shelters encourage public transportation, which is crucial for alleviating traffic congestion and reducing air pollution. 

Enhances Bus Stop Visibility

Bus shelters make bus stops more conspicuous and recognisable, which is particularly important in areas with limited transit signage.

Enhances Standard of Living 

Transit shelters enhance the standard of cities, their effectiveness in operation, and most importantly, the well-being of all residents. Installing them at each bus stops indicates a developed city. 

Convenience

Most modern shelters are convenient to use. Several smart shelters use stainless steel benches. Most of them have emergency medical kits, a feeding room for women, plug points for charging your mobile, and a water container. 

Conclusion

In conclusion, transit shelters greatly help citizens and contribute to a systematic public transportation system. They are not just structures to shield passengers from the elements but vital components of a well-functioning urban landscape. 

Their importance lies in their ability to improve commuting experiences, enhance public transportation systems, foster community connections, promote accessibility, and contribute to the overall livability of cities. Therefore, it is essential to recognise and prioritise the importance of bus shelters in urban infrastructure development and planning.