MENU
SEARCHPredictive runtimes help Jacksonville Transportation Authority reach up to 98% OTP, improving reliability and reducing delays on key city routes.
Jacksonville Transportation Authority used Optibus Predictive Runtimes, which uses real-time data to generate optimized runtimes that better reflect current operating conditions.
Photo: Optibus
Optibus recently released the results of how Florida’s Jacksonville Transportation Authority (JTA) is setting a new standard for on-time performance (OTP).
The JTA, which provides public transportation services across Jacksonville, offers core services like Route 30 Cecil/103rd Street — a key east-west corridor that serves major community destinations, including three local schools, a Walmart, and an Amazon fulfillment center.
In the Fall of 2024, JTA’s service department began searching for ways to improve OTP and enhance schedule reliability throughout the day. A particular concern centered on recurring delays near a local high school during peak student traffic hours.
“After implementing Predictive Runtimes, we improved OTP by more than ten percentage points, giving our riders more reliable service and making daily operations smoother for our team,” said Tavis Bader, a planner at JTA.
Drivers also appreciate the recognition that comes with operating high-OTP routes, boosting morale and motivation.
Photo: Optibus
JTA used Optibus Predictive Runtimes, which uses real-time data to generate optimized runtimes that better reflect current operating conditions. The engine is powered by data from Snapper Services, whose Mosaiq Transit Intelligence Suite processed the agency’s real-time vehicle positioning data and made it available via API.
Using data collected in Fall 2024, Optibus’ software analyzed traffic patterns. It proposed refined timetable suggestions, which JTA cross-validated against CAD/AVL data in Power BI dashboards to reveal that the predictive runtimes closely matched actual performance metrics.
Immediate results included:
OTP improved by ten percentage points, from 83.4% to 94%.
Schedule reliability increased.
Drivers reported that trips were running “right on the nose.”
According to the assistant SDM, the route reached up to 98% OTP some days.
The agency noted cost savings from reduced timetable delays. The new schedules accounted more accurately for peak school traffic, especially westbound on 103rd Street, improving punctuality without overcompensating with excess layover time.
A new ADA-compliant ramp and station upgrades improve access, enhance the rider experience, and deliver millions in cost savings for the MTA.
Read More →
Erin Hockman will officially assume the role on May 7, as current CEO Amanda Wanke departs to take a leadership position with Metro Transit in the Twin Cities.
Read More →
The survey showed that commute trips still make up the majority of ridership, with most riders boarding 2 to 3 days a week, reflecting hybrid work schedules. Two-thirds of Caltrain riders have access to a car, while 37% of Caltrain riders are considered low-income.
Read More →
The changes are designed to reduce overall travel time, shorten wait times, and get customers to their destinations more quickly.
Read More →
The plan outlines strategies to protect transit infrastructure from extreme weather, prioritize critical investments, and improve system reliability as climate risks intensify.
Read More →
In this edition, we cover recent appointments and announcements at MCTS, Voith, and more, showcasing the individuals helping to shape the future of transportation.
Read More →
Advances in data and analytics are giving transit agencies new opportunities to refine maintenance practices, improve efficiency and make more informed decisions about asset performance.
Read More →
Connectpoint is enhancing its digital signage strategy by integrating LED technology into its services.
Read More →
Today’s riders—and the communities you serve—expect more from public transit. While ADA compliance is required, leading transit agencies know that true accessibility also means delivering dignity, efficiency, and a better rider experience. This whitepaper reveals why forward thinking agencies nationwide choose the Low Floor Frontrunner as their first choice for ADA compliant vehicles—setting a new standard with passenger first design, faster boarding, improved safety, and unmatched operational performance.
Read More →
New ID requirements for employers and service providers aim to improve data accuracy and oversight for motorcoach and commercial drivers.
Read More →