WKU Grad Students Completed Study of GO BG Transit

WKU Graduate Students recently completed an analysis of GO BG Transit’s performance. This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of Bowling Green’s public transportation system by evaluating the proper coverage of various demographics around the city. In turn, potential areas for expansion were identified that could possibly improve mobility and accessibility throughout the City of Bowling Green. Frank Aryee, Brandon Fowler, Rachel Hetzler, and Brandon Porter are graduate students working with the WKU Department of Geography & Geology and the WKU Center for GIS. By utilizing data provided by Community Action of Southern Kentucky and the U.S. Census Bureau, these students were able to show how effectively the current transportation serves the community.

The results of this study can be downloaded here.

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The analysis included the following (5) demographic variables:

• · Population – total number of people at a given place and time
• · Income – median household income
• · MF 12-16 – males and females between 12 and 16 years old
• · 65 up – people who are 65 years or older
• · Transit Type: Biking, Walking, Taxi – people who used these as a means of transportation

“This study shows that we are serving the majority of places within the city that need Public Transit the most.” said Ken Meredith, Public Transit Coordinator. “This information is helpful as we continue to evaluate services and plan for the future.”

The study results and discussions included several maps showing current ridership and ridership in relation to the variables and the following conclusions:

•  “the current coverage is sufficient”

• “Focusing more on Route efficiency, such as quick connectivity and increased bike and pedestrian accessibility can maximize patronage.”

• “it may be important to consider looking at Industrialized and Commercial areas for future route extension.”

GO bg transit provides 5 fixed routes weekdays 7am-6pm, two Saturday Shopping Shuttles the first Saturday of each month, and numerous other shuttles to serve the Bowling Green Community. The GO to Work Shuttle provides transportation in the early morning hours to various employment locations along Campbell Lane, Scottsville Road and 31W By-pass and links riders to other routes and shuttles.

GO BG Transit is a service of the City of Bowling Green and is operated by Community Action of Southern Kentucky. For more information, please visit http://www.casoky.org/transportation or call 782-3162 ext. 238.