Agencies can use data resources to improve their decision-making and provide more responsive service.
With transit ridership "still down about 54 percent from where it was at this time in 2019," transit agencies are turning to data and technology to explore ways to change their operations and better serve riders, writes Skip Descant.
"New Jersey Transit is partnering with the movement technology firm Replica to fold a number of data resources into planning and decision-making at the agency. The Replica data reflects localized economic activity, ridership changes on any given route, and a look at the overall mobility in an area showing not only the mode of travel, but also the purpose of the trip." Elsewhere, "the Utah Transit Authority in Salt Lake City is joining forces with community partners to offer on-demand rides for late-night workers," and "[t]he San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency has installed temporary transit lanes on key routes 'to speed up service so that transit riders do not bear the cost of traffic congestion.'"
"In order to be resilient, transit has shown a need to think and act fast. Which is where data, and its analysis, can help," Steven Turell, chief of staff for Replica, told Government Technology. Using data, "you can actually start to optimize much more quickly for the outcomes that you want in the city."
FULL STORY: Data, Analysis Are Essential to Planning the Future of Transit
Post-Pandemic Transit Likely To Remain Less Commuter-Focused
While the future of transit ridership depends on a range of still-uncertain factors, the commuter-centric patterns that characterized pre-COVID transit service are probably a thing of the past.
Lessons for Transit Ridership From Past Pandemics
While COVID-19 is a unique moment in American history, experiences from past pandemics shed light on how the pandemic might shape public transit ridership.
How to Attract Post-Pandemic Transit Riders
After seeing dramatic cuts in service and ridership during the pandemic, transit agencies have a small window of opportunity to gain and retain regular passengers.
Study: Maui’s Plan to Convert Vacation Rentals to Long-Term Housing Could Cause Nearly $1 Billion Economic Loss
The plan would reduce visitor accommodation by 25,% resulting in 1,900 jobs lost.
North Texas Transit Leaders Tout Benefits of TOD for Growing Region
At a summit focused on transit-oriented development, policymakers discussed how North Texas’ expanded light rail system can serve as a tool for economic growth.
Why Should We Subsidize Public Transportation?
Many public transit agencies face financial stress due to rising costs, declining fare revenue, and declining subsidies. Transit advocates must provide a strong business case for increasing public transit funding.
How to Make US Trains Faster
Changes to boarding platforms and a switch to electric trains could improve U.S. passenger rail service without the added cost of high-speed rail.
Columbia’s Revitalized ‘Loop’ Is a Hub for Local Entrepreneurs
A focus on small businesses is helping a commercial corridor in Columbia, Missouri thrive.
Invasive Insect Threatens Minnesota’s Ash Forests
The Emerald Ash Borer is a rapidly spreading invasive pest threatening Minnesota’s ash trees, and homeowners are encouraged to plant diverse replacement species, avoid moving ash firewood, and monitor for signs of infestation.
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