A ridehailing access program for regional rail

Abstract

Transit agencies and municipalities partner with ridehailing providers to establish programs that improve first/last mile connections, extend service areas, or provide service at times when transit does not operate. Though many agencies that have implemented these programs report success, there are still open questions about what types of programs best serve what types of communities and geographies. At the same time, the COVID-19 pandemic caused a disruption in travel patterns and presented an opportunity for individuals to re-evaluate travel choices. As the pandemic wanes, we may observe longer-term changes in travel behaviors including the adoption of alternatives to driving alone. Introducing a new program at this time might spur more use than would have occurred if one of these things were to happen on its own. In this paper I use survey data collected in the City of Davis, California in the summer of 2020 to assess the expected use of planned shared use mobility programs to access regional rail for different types of travelers and trips; and whether and how the pandemic is relevant to those expectations. For those living in the Davis area, the programs would provide ridehailing and rideshare access to the Davis Amtrak station and the Capitol Corridor rail service that runs between Sacramento and San Jose, California. The majority of participants reported that they have an interest in the programs. The programs would likely increase the use of the train for non-commute travel.