Performance of Park-and-ride Stations in Nairobi Metropolis: (a Case Study of Athi River and Syokimau Railway Stations)

Abstract

Park and Ride facilities have the potential to promote use of mass transit systems and help in relieving traffic congestion and air pollution, which are all associated with excessive automobile usage. However, some factors can impede their successful performance. This study is a focus on performance of Park and Ride stations in Nairobi Metropolis with a view to giving recommendations on performance improvement. The theories underpinning the study were the Systems theory, Actor Network theory and Rhizomes theory. The researcher also devised an empirical framework guide the study and a conceptual framework with performance criteria to gauge performance. A situational analysis was carried out on the existing legal and institutional framework governing transport sector in Kenya. The urban land use planning and development in the study area were also examined to determine challenges that may need to be resolved in the operating environment for the study stations. The study employed a quantitative and qualitative research methodology with data collected via questionnaires administered to 165 respondents in the two stations and 3 interviews held with Kenya Railways officers. The findings indicated that the land use character in the station influence area, operating trains schedules and speed and availability of other socio-economic facilities like convenience stores and recreational facilities have a direct bearing on performance of park and ride stations. The study recommended some short-term measures to improve performance like introduction of differentiated affordable fares for train trips at peak and off-peak hours, awareness creation and obtaining constant feedback. The medium to long term measures and strategies recommended include introducing faster trains with condensed schedules, more connector transport services in the suburbs railway stations, review of the planning concept for the stations and reconfiguration of the station land area to create station plazas with other facilities like convenience stores, restaurants, and recreational facilities. Collaboration between the railway operator, the host County Government, and the adjacent landowners was also recommended towards re-planning the stations surrounding area. The study provided insights into other areas of further study like impacts of major land use and transport development undertakings on existing Park and Ride facilities and economic appraisal of Park and Ride stations in Nairobi Metropolitan Area, among others.