Development of a decision support tool to better manage Alabama's rural public transit vehicles

79326544504453965231046PDFProceedingsDatabasesDecision support systemsFleet managementInventoryRecordkeepingRural transitState government agenciesTransit busesIowa State University. Center for Transportation Research and EducationAnderson, Michael D.Doshier, Corey N.Moody, Jason D.Sandlin, Adam C.AGR-PASSENGERS-TransitNTL-PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION-Transit Planning and PolicyNTL-PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION-PUBLIC TRANSPORTATIONUS Transportation CollectionIn an ongoing effort to improve mobility and quality of life for Alabama's citizens, researchers at the University of Alabama in Huntsville are working to improve the state's ability to manage its rural transit fleet. This fleet management consists of a visual inspection for all state owned vehicles along with an examination of individual provider's records to verify vehicle identification numbers and mileage as well as assess the overall condition of the vehicle based on appearance, passenger comfort level, and maintenance needs. The research team is developing a vehicle inventory database to track all of Alabama's public transit vehicles and to be used as a decision support tool for the equitable acquisition of new vehicles and disposal of inadequate vehicles. This database will be used to establish a new recordkeeping system for all state owned vehicles. Specific functions for data entry, review, and reporting will be included with the database. This tool will allow access to information on all agencies in a user-friendly environment and benefit Alabama as an improved decision support tool providing potential cost savings associated with improved vehicle acquisition and disposal