Pedestrian flow in & out of a terminal can be predicted and directed. For example, if a terminal is situated on one side of an east-west stretch of street, you only need two extra gates at the east and west corners respectively to effectively channel pedestrian traffic.

Likewise, if the location is an open square bounded by streets on the north, south, east and west sides, pedestrian traffic would concentrate at the street intersections and full accessibility can be achieved with just a gate at each of the four corners.

By designing a terminal properly, even the need to jaywalking across the bus bays to reach the waiting area can be eliminated.

Visual continuity is important too as a terminal should not be a fortress. Commuters should be able to see the shops across the street from inside a terminal as this would help “link” the terminal to its surroundings and spur the businesses. Fences like the one used by KTM at Mid Valley Komuter station is strong but allow uninterrupted views in and out of the station.

Btw, have you guys commented on the RapidPenang website? A very good effort. Lovely.

There are some other issues that need to be considered here, such as safety and security.

If the threats and violence at KOMTAR and the attempted firebombings at the Sg. Nibong depot have shown anything, it is clear that there is heavy competition for public transport in Penang.

An interchange that is also an open depot may be a security risk.

Moaz