Needs Assessment and GIS-Based Spatial Optimization of Urban Bus Stops Using Buffer Analysis: The Case Study of the Trans Palu Bus Corridors

Abstract

This study evaluates the existing condition, spatial coverage, and required provision of Bus Trans Palu stops across four route corridors in Palu City, Indonesia. The analysis integrates passenger surveys, field inventory, operational observations, and Geographic Information System (GIS)-based network buffer analysis using an operational service distance of approximately 400 m, derived from walking-distance preferences and national technical standards. The findings show that more than 90% of stopping points lack proper facilities, while fewer than 10% are formal shelters. Spatial gaps are concentrated in peripheral and transition segments where inter-stop distances exceed 400–500 m. Passenger utilization remains low, with load factors of 2%–8%, indicating that stop accessibility and facility quality are key constraints. The required number of stops is 84 for Corridor 1, 31 for Corridor 2, 30 for Corridor 3M, 39 for Corridor 3Y, and 71 for Corridor 4. The study contributes a corridor-specific framework that combines spatial accessibility, user walking preferences, land-use characteristics, and stop typology assessment.