Factors Influencing Fixed-Route Transit Decision-Making: Exploring Differences by Disability and Community Type

Abstract

Transit agencies utilize the following complementary initiatives to encourage greater fixed-route transit usage by people with disabilities: (1) implementing more rigorous paratransit eligibility determination practices, and (2) addressing the factors that deter people with disabilities from using fixed-route transit. This research focuses on the latter and uses previously conducted survey data to determine the most important factors individuals with disabilities consider when deciding to use various transportation options, and how these factors vary by disability and community type. Findings indicate that individuals with mobility impairments consistently rated the built environment factors as more important to their transit mode decision-making than scheduling-related factors. Findings also highlight the importance of addressing complex trips when assisting riders with intellectual and cognitive disabilities. The current study also reveals that people with disabilities experience barriers differently based on where they live, suggesting the need for context sensitive interventions to support fixed-route ridership. Transit agencies should utilize this information to employ more targeted interventions to encourage greater fixed-route transit usage for individuals with disabilities.