Efficiency of the Valparaiso University Crusader Transit

Faculty Sponsor

Jay Grossman

College

Engineering

Discipline(s)

Civil Engineering

Presentation Type

Poster Presentation

Symposium Date

Spring 5-3-2019

Abstract

The purpose of this project is to evaluate the effectiveness of riding the Valparaiso University Crusader Transit bus versus walking in order for students to get to different locations on campus. We will test this by timing ourselves and walking to different destinations and then also taking the bus from the same starting point to the same destination. Multiple trials are included in this project, including short range, medium range, and longer range of distances on campus. This will determine how far of a distance is most effective to take the bus or if it is even effective at all, when compared to walking. Testing will also include taking the Crusader Transit at various days and times of the week to see whether the timing of the university provided transit system has a larger variation. This is important when comparing the time it takes to get to a location by walking because walking will most likely be more consistent and dependable at all days and times. To keep walking to a location more controlled, we will develop a consistent walking speed of around four and a half feet per second, which is believed to be an average walking speed. This research has significant implications for college students given their limited time to get to classes or places on campus. It will help inform students about the fastest way to get from one place to another based on time of day, day of week and distance between origin and destination.

Biographical Information about Author(s)

This project was selected because, as students of Valparaiso University, each of the authors have had differing experiences with the university provided transit system and the effectiveness of this transportation. The interest in this topic stems more directly from the authors having to walk long distances in short amounts of time across campus to make it to class on time. Each of the authors are a sophomore in the Civil Engineering Department at Valparaiso University, therefore they have interest in the study of transportation. All of the authors will be employed with civil engineering internships following this academic year. Future goals of the authors are to work in water resource engineering, environmental engineering, or possibly transportation engineering.

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