Roadmapping to resilient urban public transport systems in small and mid-sized cities

• Grant number: 23/10102-7
• Support Opportunities: Regular Research Grants
• Start date: January 01, 2024
• End date: December 31, 2025
• Field of knowledge: Engineering - Transportation Engineering - Transportation Planning
• Agreement: University of Birmingham
• Principal Investigator: Cassiano Augusto Isler
• Grantee: Cassiano Augusto Isler
• Principal researcher abroad: Marcelo Blumenfeld Mendonca
• Institution abroad: University of Birmingham, England
• Host Institution: Escola Politécnica (EP). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). São Paulo , SP, Brazil
• Associated researchers: Antonio Nelson Rodrigues da Silva ; Rachel Susan Fisher

Abstract

The increasing challenges posed by climate change and the need for adaptable transport systems require understanding the impact of climate-related events on public transport and proposing suitable solutions to enhance urban resilience. Therefore, this research project aims to develop a planning tool that enhances the resilience of public transport systems in small and medium-sized cities in Brazil and the UK. The decision-making tool may be used to support policymakers, transport authorities, and private companies in creating more resilient urban public transportation systems. A comprehensive literature review to gather insights into the current state of research on the resilience of public transport systems will be conducted and discussions will be held to define the specific environmental events to be addressed, with an initial focus on floods resulting from intense and persistent rainfall. The size and characteristics of cities to be included in the study will also be determined, considering the differences in infrastructure and services between Brazil and the UK. The research group will develop a comprehensive roadmap outlining actionable steps to enhance the resilience of identified public transport systems, as it will be tailored to the specificities of cities in both countries and take into account the challenges posed by climate change. The project's scientific perspective involves understanding the impact of climatic events on cities and transport systems, identifying critical areas, and proposing appropriate solutions for enhanced urban resilience. Ultimately, the research seeks to contribute to sustainable and robust transport infrastructures that can withstand the impacts of climate change and provide efficient and reliable services to urban populations. (AU)