Time use decisions in vulnerable urban communities when implementing innovative transport alternatives

Abstract

Travel time savings have been the most important benefit included in transport project assessments over the last decades. However, understanding how individuals allocate this saved time after implementing transport projects is crucial, as time is a finite resource and performing more pleasant activities may impact their well-being. Large urban interventions, such as the implementation of the first cable car line in a deprived community in Bogotá (Colombia), impact how residents around the project allocate their time. We studied their time-use allocation by estimating a discrete–continuous extreme value (MDCEV) model, by combining data collected before and one year after the project implementation, to represent time-use decision changes in the study area. The results show participation and duration of different activities changed after the project implementation. The cable car increased the probability of participating in work, study, and carrying/collecting activities. It also decreased the duration of travel activities. The cable car also increased women’s time allocation to education and paid work. Overall, reduced travel time allows for more time for leisure and recreational activities. Understanding how individuals allocate their time is particularly relevant for policymakers to inform policies related to transport. This study offers valuable insights into both model development and data collection methods and the understanding of the mechanisms of time-use decisions.