Transit agencies typically struggle, logistically and financially, to provide service to those unable to ride fixed-route buses. These riders need access to transportation, but the additional costs of paratransit can drain agency coffers and result in reductions to the operating budgets for fixed-route service. Without a plan to manage these costs, the entire system can be put at risk. Fixed-route bus transit typically carries more people than paratransit or on-demand service; at the same time, transit providers are keenly aware of the social equity needs met by paratransit.
costs
Costs for Pedestrian and Bicyclist Infrastructure Improvements: A Resource for Researchers, Engineers, Planners, and the General Public (Pedestrian and Bicycle Information Center, 2013)
This report provides infrastructure cost estimates for pedestrian and bicycle treatments, infrastructure, and amenities from across the country. Costs vary widely, but the report includes high, low, and median costs from a variety of sources.
The Innovative DOT: A Handbook of Policy and Practice (SSTI & SGA, 2012)
State officials across the country are facing the same challenges. Revenues are falling and budgets are shrinking while transportation demands grow. Most state Departments of Transportation (DOTs) have ambitious goals: improve safety, reduce congestion, enhance economic opportunity, improve reliability, preserve system assets, accelerate project delivery, and help to create healthier, more livable neighborhoods, just to name a few.
The handbook provides 31 recommendations transportation officials can use as they position their agencies for success in the new economy. The handbook documents many of the innovative approaches state leaders are using to make systems more efficient, government more effective and constituents better satisfied.
Bus Rapid Transit: Projects Improve Transit Service and Can Contribute to Economic Development (GAO, 2012)
GAO was asked to examine (1) features included in BRT projects funded by the FTA; (2) BRT project performance in terms of ridership and service and how they compare to rail transit projects; (3) how BRT-projects’ costs differ from rail transit …
Who Pays for Roads in Wisconsin? (1000 Friends of Wisconsin and COWS, 2011)
Transportation is one of the biggest-ticket items for state and local government. The cost is high, and so is misunderstanding of who pays for what. Taxpayers cover costs that should be borne by road users and these …
Bus Rapid Transit Practitioner's Guide (Transit Cooperative Research Program, 2007)
This guide explores the costs, impacts, and effectiveness of implementing selected bus rapid transit (BRT) components. The report examines planning and decision making related to implementing different components of BRT systems, and highlights the costs …
The high speed rail quandry
The future of high speed rail in America continues to be uncertain. While California has suffered multiple setbacks in its efforts, high speed rail continues to be on the agenda in several other states.
The high speed rail quandry
The future of high speed rail in America continues to be uncertain. While California has suffered multiple setbacks in its efforts, high speed rail continues to be on the agenda in several other states.
Montana tries a biodegradable corrosion inhibitor to save money, reduce maintenance, and be more environmentally friendly
Many states and municipalities are trying new mixtures to keep their roads safe in nasty winter weather. Montana is developing yet another blend to inhibit the corrosion of bridges and vehicles, this time with corn sugar, …
Montana tries a biodegradable corrosion inhibitor to save money, reduce maintenance, and be more environmentally friendly
Many states and municipalities are trying new mixtures to keep their roads safe in nasty winter weather. Montana is developing yet another blend to inhibit the corrosion of bridges and vehicles, this time with corn sugar, …