Development of disaggregate mode choice models of intercity travel in Libya

Estimation of disaggregate mode choice models to estimate the ridership share on a proposed new (or improved) intercity travel service and to identify the modes from which existing intercity travelers will be diverted to the new or upgraded service constitutes a critical part of evaluating alternative travel service proposals to alleviate intercity travel congestion. In Libya, people heavily relies on private cars for intercity trips increased traffic congestion and road accidents on intercity highways having been the negative impacts. The time is ripe for a policy to simultaneously improve intercity public transport and control car ownership. The aim of this study is to evaluate and analyze the influence on intercity mode choice by proposing a new intercity high-speed train system with high quality of services and new low-cost airline service, in order to reduce car use for intercity travel in Libya, and to enhance intercity road safety. Also, to develop a framework to model travel choice behavior in order to estimate intercity travel demand at nation-level in Libya. The collection of data is conducted through revealed and stated preference surveys handed out to intercity travelers between all major cities in Libya. Comprehensive questionnaires (Arabic and English) will be designed and distributed at airport terminals, bus terminals, and at gasoline stations located midway between the cities under study. The results are hoped to assist decision-makers on all levels to wisely allocate resources to public transportation improvement, and to reduce road accidents on intercity highway and enhance road safety.