How transit scheduling actually works
Dense agency run cuts and block schedules translated into clear, mathematical mechanics for operators, supervisors, schedulers, and union representatives.
Blocks, runs, and rosters
Every bus on the street represents a chain of mathematical decisions. Schedulers translate service hours into efficient vehicle blocks, driver runs, and weekly rosters.
Building the vehicle block
A block is a single bus's daily itinerary from pull-out to pull-in. Schedulers chain trips together to minimize deadhead miles and maximize active passenger service hours.
Cutting the driver runs
Run cutting slices daily blocks into individual driver shifts. Schedulers balance strict union rules, overtime thresholds, and split-shift constraints to build sustainable work runs.
Step-by-step run cutting
Block building
Run slicing
Roster packaging
Group individual trips into continuous vehicle blocks, minimizing unpaid layover times and garage deadheads.
Slice blocks into straight runs or split shifts, adhering to maximum spread times and operator rest requirements.
Combine daily runs into weekly five-day rosters, balancing weekend coverage and equitable work distribution.
Master the mechanics
Access our complete library of operator, supervisor, and rider manuals.