Innovation in Rapid Transit: Historical Case Study

Abstract

A historical case study is made of the technological innovation and operating practices used by a large transit operator during the first half of this century. This survey can benefit present-day planners, engineers, and operators in that it illustrates the inherent flexibility of the rail mode and methods by which a given investment in a fixed plant and rolling stock may be maximized. It also shows historical precedent for many practices (e.g., joint operation of transit with freight and zone scheduling) that are currently being reintroduced or undergoing feasibility evaluation.