An economic analysis of a sample of neighborhoods in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area using walkability measures, this study offer useful insights for a diverse set of interests, including lenders, developers, economic planning professionals, as well as those interested in the economic healthy of cities.
transit
New Chicago plan aims for zero traffic deaths in ten years
In a new transportation plan Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel and DOT Commissioner Gabe Klein laid out their vision of no traffic fatalities within ten years. While the safety goals received much of the recent press, abitious performance measures for sustainability, transportation choice, customer service, and economic development are also part of the plan.
Investing in transit improves quality of life in rural areas
Transit is not just an urban phenomenon, and transit service is critical for many rural residents. Addressing rural transit needs has emerged as a major challenge for transit agencies, municipalities, and human services agencies as greater numbers of people in rural areas seek transit services for their daily trips.
First quarter of 2012 shows more people are switching to transit
As per-capita VMT has begun to decline, an increasing number of people are riding the nation’s transit systems. According to APTA (American Public Transportation Association), transit ridership in the first quarter of 2012 increased 5 percent over 2011 levels.
Walk/Transit/Bike Score now an important number for real estate
Walk Score, and now its associated Transit Score and Bike Score have become increasingly important metrics for both brokers selling and renting homes and those searching for a place to live. Access to transportation options is important to those frustrated with congestion and rising gas prices as well as those who simply want a walkable neighborhood.
The Shifting Nature of U.S. Housing Demand (The Demand Institute, 2012)
The Demand Institute believes that a housing market recovery has begun, but this recovery will be different from previous ones because of new market conditions and expectations. These differences may impact transportation planning as commuting and non-work travel patterns change.
Increasing transit ridership: Should we make public transportation “fun” or “useful”?
In order to attract more riders to transit, is it more important for transit to be enjoyable or useful? Two writers debate in competing books and on-line.
Uses of Social Media in Public Transportation (TCRP, May 2012)
This synthesis explores the use of social media among transit agencies and documents successful practices in the United States and Canada. Social media provide transit agencies with an unparalleled opportunity to connect with their customers. Download …
Annual survey finds that even in car-centric Houston, people want better access to transit
The Kinder Institute for Urban Research at Rice University released the results of their 2012 Kinder Houston Area Survey, which found that Houstonians want better transportation options and housing within walking distance from stores, schools, and work. The survey summary points out that attitudes towards urban living are changing in the Houston area, often considered the most car-oriented large city in the United States.
The Onion features special transportation issue
The Onion provided a few laughs last week when it ran a series of stories from the archives for a special Transit Issue.