Further Research into Using Geographic Principles to Analyze Public Transportation in the USA and Maximize the Concept of Induced Transit

Abstract

Abstract Purpose In the United States, many arguments for mass transport often focus on its benefits to the environment or in terms of congestion relief. This chapter instead looks at direct micro-scale and meso-scale economic and social benefits by identifying occupations, industries, and demographic groups that are both growing and can benefit from transit. In using this form of local-scale identification of unique economic circumstances, government planners, elected officials, and academics can create a practical, GIS-focused approach to increase the utility and acceptance of mass transportation in the United States. Methodology/approach Using a GIS-based approach with US Census and US Labor Department data, the chapter focuses on local growth sectors in the economy, then identifying their transit-usage patterns. Additionally some GIS are used to identify concentration areas of both occupations and transit usage, along with areas of likely employment for those individuals. Locally this creates “micro-climates” or hot spots for favorable views and usage of transport. These micro-climates can be duplicated in other similar areas to increase utilization, and therefore return on investment, of public transportation. Findings For denser areas, affluent downtowns, and areas which are accessible to hospitals and universities, the primary growth engines of the current US labor market, transit has a positive correlated relationship. Additionally, recent immigrant groups, particularly those with limited English speaking ability, have also shown a correlated growth in transit usage. By identifying these areas with GIS, transit can better align its services to needs and improve it return on investment. Social implications The United States has had a fifty-year-long negative view of public transport outside of major urban areas. By identifying groups with positive correlated use of transit, the return on investment and public perception of its use and environmental sustainability can mesh with land use planning and perceived quality of the service. In so doing, transit use may be encouraged. Originality/value The United States is faced with very high petrol prices relative to its history, and somewhat lesser incomes among its sub-age-30 work cohorts. This has encouraged density. However, in order to provide for this increased demand, there must be an increase in both supply and politically perceived value in its investment. This chapter seeks to be an early pragmatic model in valuing public transport at a local level.