Bus shelters are an essential part of the transit system of every country which need to be designed after considering some important points. The designing of bus stop is good enough to cater the requirements of both bus driver and passengers. Technology has also played its part in providing different styles and designs for bus stops with access to useful features. To contribute to sustainability, increase ridership potential and enhanced city image, consider the following points while designing and installing bus shelters,
1. Desired Location
First and foremost point is to consider the location for constructing bus shelter. A good location for bus stops is one where buses run frequently, area with high level of riders, area adjecent to commercial complexes and area where security is the big concern. To avoid conflicts with pedestrian traffic and regulate easy boarding and existing from the bus a distance of about 5-6 feet should be kept from the road.
1. Desired Location
First and foremost point is to consider the location for constructing bus shelter. A good location for bus stops is one where buses run frequently, area with high level of riders, area adjecent to commercial complexes and area where security is the big concern. To avoid conflicts with pedestrian traffic and regulate easy boarding and existing from the bus a distance of about 5-6 feet should be kept from the road.
2. Clear Visibility
Visibility from bus shelter is also a main concern for the commuters waiting for bus. View from the bus stop must be clear enough to see the upcoming bus along with its display number. Poorly designed bus shelters or obstacle in front of view will force people to leave the shelter and watch for upcoming bus from road, thereby endangering their life as well as obstructing traffic.
3. Bus Stop Design
It will be good if the design of bus stop reflects the unique characteristics of the city itself. By making use of easily available yet durable material, the bus stop shelters manufacturers can accomplish the task. All bus shelter in a city should be of standardized size to maintain the uniformity as well as provide enough space to commuters for boarding and de-boarding the bus.
- Accessibility is also a prime point of concern for bus stops. In each design there should be enough space to allow opening and closing of bus gate.
- Comfort and convenience come next! There should be enough place to sit and lean, durable protection against extreme weather. Bus shelters are designed to provide shelter to riders in a busy area.
- A brief information about bus arrival time, route map and bus schedule should be there that will assist unfamiliar people and tourist in traveling.
- Side panels of bus stops should be of tempered glass to provide enough strength without blocking the view of roadside.
- Housed lights in a protecting casing is also needed in the bus stop to provide visibility to commuters during nights.
4. Durable Standard
Designing and installing bus shelters are an expensive piece of art that are exposed to harsh weather conditions like sun, wind, rains, snow and other debris. The bus shelters should be designed to last and should not tend to discolor over the time.The parts of bus shelters should be properly fixed by using bolts in place of casting to reduce the damage. Durable materials like stainless steel, fiber and tempered glass should be used for making bus stops. Wood and concrete are not a durable material for making bus stands. Whereas, iron tends to rust over the time.
5. Less Maintenance
Maintaining bus shelters requires an extra flow of funds. However, it is advisable to use durable material for manufacturing bus shelters to reduce maintenance cost. Material used should be rust resistant, scratch proof, water proof and easy to clean.