Utilization of adaptive methodology to underpin rail transportation systems: Sydney metro’s methodical formulation

Abstract

Purpose As a part of adaptive and complex system thinking, geographic information systems (GIS) are beneficial particularly for transportation projects, where uncertainty is frequent. Accordingly, this paper aims to examine the utilization of GIS in line with adaptive and complex system thinking, as the basis of the methodical formulation of perceived gaps within the integrated transportation planning (ITP) specifically for the mega transportation projects. Such a framework is undertaken, as the mega transportation projects although may seem straightforward, however, are problematic and require more consideration than the traditional triple bottom line factors. Using the Sydney Metro as the case study, the outcome demonstrates the significance of the fourth separate dimension of engineering into the aforementioned bottom-line factors. Design/methodology/approach The research examines the utilization of adaptive and complex system thinking, as the basis of the methodical formulation of perceived gaps within the ITP. The use of Sydney’s Metro project is a novel example of the proposed methodical formulation and its empirical assessment and provides a better understanding of the use of mapping and planning tools for mega transportation projects. Findings Aptly, using the developed conceptual framework, this research further validates the inclusion of a separate engineering dimension with the usual triple bottom line factors. Such inclusion is paramount in responding to the existing ITP gaps found within the current literature. Originality/value This research uses GIS and ITP process to support the aforementioned adaptive and complex system thinking. This, in turn, is used as the basis of a methodical formulation framework in dealing with mega rail transportation infrastructure. To support such a proposition, Sydney Metro is examined as the basis of a case study.

Strategic Initiatives for Large Transport Infrastructure Planning: Reinforcing Sustainability in Urban Transportation through Better Stakeholder Engagement

“…Large transport infrastructures can range from high-speed railways to long-span bridges connecting different parts of the country. They are classified as mega-projects that are characterized by immense organizational complexity, a long-lasting impact on the economy, environment, and society, and a large investment commitment [25]. Also, transport infrastructure such as trams and light metros in areas with geographical constraints has been shown to widen labor catchment areas and boost surrounding property prices, thereby encouraging inward investment [24].…”

“…Also, transport infrastructure such as trams and light metros in areas with geographical constraints has been shown to widen labor catchment areas and boost surrounding property prices, thereby encouraging inward investment [24]. Rail infrastructures provide an alternative mode of transportation for the public that is cheap and efficient and can enhance the socio-economic vitality of the area [25]. Large transport infrastructure projects also contribute to the strategic development of society by satisfying economic and societal needs, resulting in the improvement of a country's social image [26].…”

“…The first challenge is the involvement of numerous stakeholders, leading to complex stakeholder inter-relations As can be seen in Figure 1, the main aspect of ITM is the inclusion of intelligent transportation systems (ITS) in its core. Nonetheless, such intelligent traffic management arrangements need to be carefully integrated, via suitable interfaces, with other elements of transportation infrastructure [25]. Furthermore, according to [29], three major challenges arise from the characteristics of large transport infrastructure.…”

Challenges in Determining the Scope of Rail Megaprojects: Responding to Ever-Increasing Infrastructure Demand

“…With the increasing number of large railway infrastructure megaprojects around the world, the performance of these projects has always been associated with delays, cost overspending, or shortcomings in quality [57]. Overrun is a common problem in public and private-sector rail megaprojects [58]. Overruns have stayed high and constant for the past decades.…”

Verifying the sustainability factors of mega transportation infrastructure: Sydney Metro’s commissioning through the “significance matrix” methodology

“…With that said, EIA may also include historical land information data to further determine the prolonged status of the project or development (Gharehbaghi et al , 2022). Figure 3 represents the overall framework of EIA.…”