Overview

Andy was a key team member for the TEANs project while seconded to TfNSW.

Background

As major infrastructures come online and new plans receive approval, it becomes crucial to ensure that transport models accurately reflect these developments. The process of updating STM and PTPM involves a meticulous review and endorsement of transport network assumptions.

Objectives

• Facilitate collaboration among stakeholders to consolidate updated network plans.
• Guide the networks through a governance review and endorsement process.
• Update network coding within model databases.
• Prepare and integrate network inputs to refresh strategic transport models.
  

Role

Andy was entrusted with a pivotal role in the TENAs project, focusing on the ferry networks within Sydney's Strategic Transport Model (STM) and Public Transport Planning Model (PTPM).

Tasks and Stages

1. Assessed and documented the coding methodologies of ferry networks in both STM and PTPM.
2. Utilized Python tools to generate 2016 STM itineraries based on GTFS, comparing these to original versions.
3. Converted 2021 PTPM AM Peak itineraries to STM format.
4. Developed 2026 itineraries for STM and PTPM using GTFS data, focusing on future service planning.

Analysis, Interpretation, and Judgement

• Employed a combination of Excel, Python, and EMME for data analysis and STM testing.
• Created dashboards, tables, and plots to illustrate frequency changes and facilitate stakeholder reviews.
• Engaged with the TENAs team for advice, leading to iterative improvements in coding and assumptions.
• Conducted workshops with stakeholders, including Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) on ferries, to refine future service models and integrate feedback.

Stakeholder Engagement and Endorsement

• Followed specific procedures for quality assurance and transparency, as developed by the TENAs Project Manager.
• Presented findings and proposed coding updates to key stakeholders, ensuring alignment with strategic objectives and operational realities.
  
  

Outcomes

Given the iconic status of Sydney's ferries and their significance to both local commuting and the international image of the city, a comprehensive overhaul of ferry service coding was initiated. This overhaul transitioned from a manual to a GTFS (General Transit Feed Specification)-based approach, enhancing both accuracy and efficiency.

The TENAs project, with Andy's significant contributions, led to several key outcomes:

• The development and documentation of a new coding methodology for ferry services within STM and PTPM, marking a departure from previous practices and ensuring greater model fidelity.
• The determination of differential treatment of multi-legged trips by STM and PTPM, which informed the adoption of a more nuanced approach to modeling ferry movements.
• The endorsement of future ferry plans, incorporating a GTFS-based approach to accurately reflect service changes and projections.
• Recognition of the ferry network's unique role in Sydney's transport ecosystem, balancing its iconic status against the practicalities of patronage and operational planning.

This case study underscores the complexity of integrating real-world changes into strategic transport models and highlights the critical role of collaboration, technical expertise, and stakeholder engagement in achieving effective and reliable modeling outcomes.