Urban Global: Solution for Sustainable Brampton Transit

Hackathon Project by Cat-alyst Coders

Theme: Sustainable Solutions for Brampton Transit

Code: Github

Executive Summary

Urban Global is a user-centric, multi-modal trip planner designed to encourage sustainable commuting and reduce congestion in Brampton. Created during a hackathon, the frontend of Urban Flow provides users with an intuitive, responsive interface to view and choose between multiple eco-friendly transportation options—buses, carpooling, and cycling. This project aims to support Brampton Transit’s sustainability goals and enhance user commuting experience with an accessible, engaging web-based platform.

The Problem

With a rapidly growing population, Brampton faces rising levels of urban congestion and carbon emissions. Brampton Transit must find efficient ways to serve increasing numbers of commuters without impacting sustainability. Urban Flow’s frontend interface addresses this challenge by creating a unified, interactive platform that makes it easy for users to explore green commuting options.

Project Objectives

Urban Global frontend design focuses on:

1. User Experience and Engagement: Simplifying route planning and mode selection with an interactive, real-time interface.

2. Promoting Sustainable Choices: Encouraging eco-friendly transportation options.

3. Supporting Brampton Transit: Offering an accessible, visually appealing frontend for users to plan their trips sustainably.

Key Features of Urban Global’s Frontend

1. Multi-Modal Transportation Options

   Urban Global’s interface allows users to view and choose from three modes of transportation:

   • Bus Routes: Displays bus timings, delays, and occupancy in real-time.

   • Carpooling: Users can sign up as drivers or passengers for carpooling opportunities.

   • Cycling Routes: Through Presto card integration and collaboration with a third-party e-bike provider, users can easily rent bikes at major transit stops, supporting short-distance transit and offering a sustainable, accessible option for commuters.

User Experience Flow

1. Sign-In and Setup: Users register and select their commute preferences.

2. Mode Selection: On the dashboard, users can view all transport options and choose the one that fits their schedule.

3. Real-Time Trip Planning: Users can access live data on buses, carpooling, or bicycle rentals.

Technology Stack

Urban Global’s frontend was built with:

• React: For a responsive, cross-platform interface.

• CSS and JavaScript: To enhance UI elements, ensuring a smooth user experience.

• API Integrations: Designed to accommodate Brampton Transit APIs and Google Maps for real-time data, allowing for future scalability.

Example Scenarios

• Commuter with a Tight Schedule: A user checks bus timings and selects the fastest route.

• Carpooling Driver: A frequent driver uses the carpooling feature to offer rides and earn points.

• Cyclist Accessing Transit: A user taps their Presto card at a cycle station to rent a bike for a short commute to a bus stop.

Future Plans

While the hackathon project currently focuses on the frontend, future plans include:

1. Enhanced Backend Capabilities: Integrate Brampton Transit APIs for real-time updates and database support.

2. Expanded Carpooling Rewards: Develop a leaderboard and rewards system for frequent carpool drivers.

Conclusion

Urban Global’s frontend design brings sustainable commuting options to Brampton residents through an accessible, engaging interface. By promoting bus routes, carpooling, and cycling in a unified platform, Urban Flow helps reduce congestion and encourages eco-friendly travel habits. The project is a promising foundation for a sustainable transit solution that empowers Brampton commuters to make greener travel choices.