Optimizing intermodal commuting by way of detours and breaks: Evidence of micromobility users in France

The intermodal use of micromobility alternatives alongside transit networks significantly extends station catchment areas. However, the determination of the size of neighborhood stations often reveals a subset of users surpassing the measured distance threshold, prompting the question of why these intermodal passengers cover longer distances. This scientific article seeks a comprehensive understanding of the distances traveled and itinerary choices made by micromobility users, intending to offer adapted urban planning recommendations. This study expands upon the emerging scientific literature that highlights how intermodal passengers are increasingly making detours and breaks to enhance their travel experience. By doing so, it challenges and seeks to reverse the traditionally negative perceptions associated with extended travel distances and prolonged waiting periods. This approach underscores a paradigm shift in how journey optimization is perceived, particularly in the context of intermodal transportation. Given the complexity of intermodal travel, this investigation examines the interrelationships among detours, breaks, and spatial and temporal optimization strategies. Detours are categorized according to their typology and their geometric forms, referred to as “Escaping Transit Voronoi Station” (E-TVS), while breaks, indicated by waiting times, are analyzed regarding activities conducted during the modal chain. The study employs an objective approach by utilizing a questionnaire to capture geocoded trips. Key findings from the geostatistical analysis reveal that micromobility users are willing to travel an additional 2 km or 10 min during access or egress to avoid transfers, thus extending the catchment area to 6 km, representing a 125% larger coverage compared to trips without detours. The implementation of detours by micromobility allows for average time savings of 19% and spatial distance savings of 3%, primarily made to avoid public transport transfers. Furthermore, breaks during the intermodal journey provide an opportunity to shop around the station, optimizing the overall modal chain. Remarkably, 95% of the analyzed intermodal trips exhibit temporal and/or spatial optimization. These findings underscore the potential of designing a public transportation system that combines efficiency with well-spaced stops and proximity-based accessibility, reconciling the performance-adherence dilemma and fostering Transit-Oriented Development areas.