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We propose a methodology for optimization of service headway and stop spacing along a low-demand bus route that minimizes operator and user costs. This study develops analytical cost models that are representative of low-demand routes by using negative binomial distribution for passenger demand for boarding and alighting pattern to estimate the probability of stopping and both random and planned arrival of passengers are considered to estimate the waiting time. Pareto optimal solutions obtained using multi-objective evolutionary algorithm, NSGA-II indicate that optimal values of headway and stop spacing are underestimated if optimized based on assumptions typical of high-demand routes which is passenger demand for boarding and alighting at bus stops randomly following a Poisson process. With the aid of the study methodology, transit planners will be able to improve the service utilization and passenger accessibility along an under-performing low demand routes by recommending minimal modifications to the existing route and bus schedule. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates Canada's traffic safety culture (TSC) as part of a global research project. The TSC survey data collected by an online survey is used to predict drivers' perception of changes in traffic problems in the past 3 years, driver's support, opposition towards enforcement of additional traffic laws, and drivers' perceived threat towards risky driving behaviors. A two-step procedure is followed to build models. The first step includes feature selection using the chi-square test of independence. The second step comprises building classification models using the Random Forest technique. Results suggest that drivers' personal attributes like the number of accident records, driving frequency, geographic region of nationality, and religion are top predictor variables for drivers' perception towards changes in traffic problems. In addition, compared to others most drivers perceive distracted driving as a major traffic problem today. There is strong disapproval of drivers against the following driving behaviors and strong support to implement laws against it: speeding in school zones, talking on a hand-held cell phone, tying text messages or e-mails, drowsy driving, driving without wearing their seatbelt, drive with passengers not wearing seatbelts, running through red lights, and impaired driving. In contrast, following risky driving behaviors is less of a perceived threat: speeding over limit on a freeway, on a residential street, and in an urban area and talking on a hands-free cell phone while driving. In addition, a driver's accident record is a significant indicator for a perceived threat towards risky driving behaviors followed by age and accumulated demerit points. The results from this study can be used to guide educational campaigns to transform the traffic safety culture of target groups and make more informed policy decisions. • Traffic safety culture in Canada was studied using a survey. • Chi-square test and Random Forest technique were used for feature selection and model building. • Most drivers perceive distracted driving as a major traffic problem today. • Driver's accident record, age, and demerit points are main indicators for perceived threat towards risky driving behaviors. • Strong support observed for laws against speeding in a school zone, distracted and impaired driving, and seat belt violation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]