Ridership refers to the total number of individuals who utilize or use a certain transportation service or system, usually public transportation. It is a measure used to determine the level or extent of usage by people, and it provides an indication of the popularity, effectiveness, or efficiency of the transportation option in relation to the demand for it.
In the context of public transportation, ridership represents the sum of passengers, travelers, or commuters who avail themselves of services such as trains, buses, trams, subways, ferries, or any other form of mass transit. Ridership figures can be measured and analyzed per day, week, month, or year, and they are frequently studied or monitored by transportation authorities, operators, or municipalities to assess the success or viability of a transit system.
By examining ridership statistics, transportation planners, policymakers, and management can determine patterns or trends in the demand for public transportation, identify peak hours or busy periods, and allocate resources accordingly. These statistics are also instrumental in evaluating the impact of initiatives related to service expansions, schedule changes, fare modifications, or route improvements.
Ridership figures are commonly compiled through ticket sales, fare collection systems, passenger surveys, or automatic passenger counters installed in vehicles. They provide vital information to inform decision-making processes, enhance operational efficiency, evaluate transportation infrastructure investments, and ensure that public transportation networks cater to the needs and preferences of the population they serve.
