Full Citation
Title: Buying Access One Trip at a Time
Citation Type: Journal Article
Publication Year: 2022
ISBN:
ISSN: 0194-4363
DOI: 10.1080/01944363.2022.2027262
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Abstract: Problem, research strategy, and findings New transportation options like ride-hail can expand accessibility without the costs of car ownership. Ride-hail’s potential is particularly salient for lower-income and zero-car households. We used interviews and a national (U.S.) survey to examine how and why lower-income travelers in the United States use ride-hail. Survey and interview responses provided a temporal snapshot and thus reflect, in part, travel challenges specific to COVID-19. Findings suggest that lower-income travelers, particularly those without personal cars, use ride-hail in ways distinct from those typically reported in broader travel surveys. Individuals without cars are more likely to use ride-hail, and use it more often, compared with people with cars, particularly to fill spatial and temporal gaps in public transit service and to access medical care and groceries. Costs and price unpredictability remain significant barriers limiting travelers’ use of ride-hail services. Takeaway for practice This research demonstrates a latent need for car access among lower-income travelers. Substantial gaps in alternative modes pose challenges for travelers seeking reliable and timely transportation. Planners should invest in transit, biking, and walking to provide robust alternatives to car ownership. Such investments, however, take time. In the meantime, cities and agencies should consider subsidizing ride-hail trips to bridge existing gaps in the transportation network.
Url: https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01944363.2022.2027262
User Submitted?: No
Authors: Brown, Anne; Klein, Nicholas J.; Smart, Michael J.; Howell, Amanda
Periodical (Full): Journal of the American Planning Association
Issue: 4
Volume: 88
Pages: 1-14
Data Collections: IPUMS USA
Topics: Land Use/Urban Organization, Poverty and Welfare
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