Optimum Locations for Intercity Bus Terminals with the AHP Approach – Case Study of the City of Esfahan

Interaction between human, location and activity
defines space. In the framework of these relations, space is a
container for current specifications in relations of the 3 mentioned
elements. The change of land utility considered with average
performance range, urban regulations, society requirements etc. will
provide welfare and comfort for citizens. From an engineering view it
is fundamental that choosing a proper location for a specific civil
activity requires evaluation of locations from different perspectives.
The debate of desirable establishment of municipal service elements
in urban regions is one of the most important issues related to urban
planning. In this paper, the research type is applicable based on goal,
and is descriptive and analytical based on nature. Initially existing
terminals in Esfahan are surveyed and then new locations are
presented based on evaluated criteria. In order to evaluate terminals
based on the considered factors, an AHP model is used at first to
estimate weight of different factors and then existing and suggested
locations are evaluated using Arc GIS software and AHP model
results. The results show that existing bus terminals are located in
fairly proper locations. Further results of this study suggest new
locations to establish terminals based on urban criteria.

• Mehrdad Arabi
• Ehsan Beheshtitabar
• Bahador Ghadirifaraz
• Behrooz Forjanizadeh

• Arc GIS
• Esfahan city
• Optimum locations
• Terminals.

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