Connecting London: Philip Gerhardt Discusses TFL’s Transit Solutions

11-09-2024 • 27 mins

In this episode of Transit Unplugged, Paul talks with Philip Gerhardt, the Head of Bus Performance at Transport for London (TfL). Philip talks about what it's like keeping the over 650 bus routes moving smoothly at one of the world's largest public transport networks.

And Philip doesn't just have to worry about the iconic double-decker red buses, he needs to make sure all bus routes--including the express routes around London--connect with all the other modes from The Tube and light rail to the Elizabeth Line and ferries. Paul and Philip talk about the details of bus performance and how TfL works with its private operator partners to deliver world-class bus service. Philip also reflects on his career journey and the passion behind TFL's iconic red buses (like many of us he fell into his transit career).

Coming up next week on the show, we have a special episode we've done in conjunction with Uber Transit. Paul will be talking with Bonnie Epstein of PSTA, Carlos Cruz Casas of Miami Dade County, and Robert Betts of Marin County, talking about how TNCs like Uber have helped them expand their service offerings with micro transit that help shift workers, the disabled, and the elderly.

Transit Unplugged is brought to you by Modaxo https://www.modaxo.com

Host: Paul Comfort
Producer: Paul Comfort
Editor and Writer: Tris Hussey
Executive Producer: Julie Gates

Special thanks to:

Brand design: Tina Olagundoye
Social Media: Tatyana Mechkarova
Marketing content, Transit Unplugged Newsletter, & transit puns: Tris Hussey

If you have a question or comment, email us at info@transitunplugged.com.

00:00 Welcome to Transit Unplugged

00:41 Meet Philip Gerhart: Head of Bus Performance at TfL

01:35 The Role of TfL's Bus Operators

02:04 Ensuring Reliability and Efficiency

03:09 The Importance of London's Bus Network

05:48 Night Bus Network and Women's Safety

06:25 The Iconic Red Double Decker Buses

08:16 Adapting to Passenger Needs

11:48 Phil's Journey in the Transport Industry

19:00 The Superloop: London's Express Bus Network

23:25 Success Stories and Future Plans

25:49 Conclusion and Farewell

26:03 Coming up next week on Transit Unplugged

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this program are those of the guests, and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of Modaxo Inc., its affiliates or subsidiaries, or any entities they represent (“Modaxo”). This production belongs to Modaxo, and may contain information that may be subject to trademark, copyright, or other intellectual property rights and restrictions. This production provides general information, and should not be relied on as legal advice or opinion. Modaxo specifically disclaims all warranties, express or implied, and will not be liable for any losses, claims, or damages arising from the use of this presentation, from any material contained in...