Urban Form and Socioeconomic Determinants of BRT Infrastructure Scale: A Cross-City Comparative Analysis

This study presents a comparative analysis of bus rapid transit (BRT) systems across various global cities, focusing on the socioeconomic and infrastructural variables that shape their design and infrastructure scale. Key indicators such as gross domestic product (GDP) per capita, population density, system length, and station spacing were examined. To explore the relationships between these variables, multiple linear regression models were developed. Results indicate that both stations spacing and the square of population density significantly influence system length, suggesting that densely populated areas with broader station spacing tend to develop longer BRT corridors. Due to nonnormality in the data set, Box–Cox transformations were applied to improve model validity. Post-transformation regression analyses demonstrated increased explanatory power. Additionally, analysis of variance was conducted to identify regional differences in variables such as GDP, standard fares, and station spacing. Findings confirm that economic and geographic disparities play a substantial role in BRT system configuration. For Sakarya, these insights offer a valuable benchmark for its planned BRT project. The models and comparative results provide a basis for aligning Sakarya’s system with global best practices and for tailoring BRT planning to local conditions. Overall, the study contributes to the development of context-sensitive and data-driven urban transit strategies.