Improving Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) District Connectivity and Access with the Segway Human Transporter and Other Low Impact

The Bay Area has an extensive transit system with networks of buses, light rail, and heavy rail extending to most major destinations. However, access (walking distance or parking) to transit stations limits the number of patrons that can effectively utilize the transit system. While there are some effective feeder services that help extend transit access to a broader range of customers, these systems have limited utility due to fixed routes and schedules. A more comprehensive approach is needed, which focuses on a range of integrated "door-to-door" mobility services linked to transit.
An effective demand-responsive, easy-to-use system that links home, work, and other activity destinations with transit stations could encourage greater transit usage. By providing seamless options that help to bridge the gap between transit and automobiles, other issues such as limited parking at transit stations, low fare box revenues, roadway congestion, and air pollution could be alleviated in an efficient manner. A multi-modal approach provides greater connectivity for people living and working within range of transit stations. The Segway Human Transporter (Segway HT or HT) is one innovative mobility device that could be part of such a seamless system and promote transit access. Other options might include shared bikes, small neighborhood electric vehicles, and full-size cars.
The Segway HT is an electric mobility device for individual short distance trips. The operator stands upright on the Segway HT and "steers" it, utilizing hand controls and weight distribution. The Segway HT is small (less than 85 pounds) and requires minimal space for storage. The device has a range of 11-17 miles on one charge and can be recharged from any 110 outlet in four to six hours. Among the many potential uses for the Segway HT is the possibility of integrating it into transit access systems with other low impact mobility devices (e.g., bicycles).
This is a two-year study of the Segway HT and other low impact mobility devices. Project partners include the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans), the Bay Area Rapid Transit District (BART), and the University of California-wide Center for Commercialization of ITS Technologies (CCIT). As a precursor to the proposed Year Two pilot demonstration, the Year One study includes an
examination of safety issues associated with other low impact modes linked to transit, such as bikes, scooters, and roller blades. The knowledge gained on safety and pedestrian conflicts of a wide range of low-impact modes will provide a baseline for better understanding Segway HT safety considerations, better managing their testing/introduction, and grasping barriers to the expansion or use of other low-impact modes for trip taking and transit access.
The Segway HT may fill a niche market for individuals who live or work too far to walk from transit, but cannot drive (because they don't own a car or parking at the station is limited). However, there is no similar device to the Segway HT and integrating it into our current transportation infrastructure poses some interesting challenges.