Sustainable Development Student Capstone Researches Efficiency Improvements for Columbia’s Intercampus Shuttle and Park-and-Ride Systems

The students spent the semester learning about Columbia’s Intercampus Shuttle bus service and conducted research to improve shuttle efficiency, accessibility, and communications.

“The team's work and final recommendations were insightful and thoughtful, taking into account certain restrictions and limitations we have,” said Greg Rivas, Executive Director for Columbia Transportation. “We've already begun discussions on what changes can be adopted from their analysis around service communications and design.”

The team conducted an analysis on current shuttle trends and used client data, surveys, and spot-checking at stops to identify locations where there could be reduced or soft stops on the Intercampus Shuttle. They also used their data to propose a Broadway/Crosstown line, redesigned maps for improved accessibility and readability, and looked into ways to best expand Columbia Transportation’s Lamont Park-and-Ride service.

“It was an absolute pleasure and privilege working with the students, and we are so grateful for their diligent and thoughtful work,” said Dan Allalemdjian, Director of Transportation and Sustainability in Columbia’s Office of Sustainability. “Their research provided us with very clear and useful outcomes for improving our operations. We have already begun conversations internally regarding the mechanics of a daily parking rate for the Lamont Park and Ride.”

For more information about the Office of Sustainability’s participation in student capstone projects, visit their website. For more on the Undergraduate Program in Sustainable Development and other capstone projects from the Spring, check out the Columbia Climate School’s State of the Planet Blog.