In 2023, Americans traveled nearly 37 billion miles on public transit, or the equivalent of four round trips from Earth to Pluto.
While this number is undoubtedly impressive, it pales in comparison to pre-COVID-19 levels. According to the American Public Transit Association, Americans traveled more than 56 billion miles in 2019, a number 35% higher than just five years later.
While ridership understandably hit rock bottom during the pandemic, it has also struggled to recover significantly in the following years.
While many factors contribute to this drop — most notably the post-pandemic increase in work-from-home jobs that reduce the number of commuters — there remain pre-existing challenges to public transit use that could dramatically improve ridership if eliminated or lessened.
The first and last mile challenge
The “First and Last Mile Challenge” describes the difficulty of getting travelers from their starting point to the main public transit system and then from the transit system to their final destination.
This length can vary dramatically depending on the traveler’s starting point and the type of system used. For some, it could be a short walk from an apartment to a bus stop, while others can walk more than a mile from a subway station to their home.
The distance adds to overall travel time and deters public transit use. It is also an obstacle for elderly or physically impaired riders who need further assistance during this trip. Safety concerns exist for riders who feel unsafe walking to and from service areas.
Read more: Learn how Leamington, Ontario, engaged with citizens when building its microtransit service in 2022.
Getting on board with microtransit
Microtransit, a flexible, technology-driven transportation service, is a promising solution to the challenges faced by traditional public transportation. Operating similarly to ride-hailing apps but with a focus on shared rides and efficient routing, it offers a convenient, affordable, and sustainable alternative for short-distance travel.
While public transit organizations can offer different versions of the service, microtransit solutions typically feature small buses or vans capable of transporting several people at once. Riders use an app to request a ride, similar to Uber, limited to pre-designated zones or neighborhoods.
Los Angeles was an early leader in offering microtransit solutions with its Micro Metro service launched in 2020. Other cities have also started or explored similar programs, including Dallas, Seattle, Houston, Jacksonville, Tucson, Columbus, and Flint.
Microtransit services offer adaptable routes and schedules tailored to individual needs, making accessing public transportation more accessible.
These services extend the reach of public transit, particularly benefiting underserved or suburban areas. They also provide a more affordable alternative to taxis or car ownership, especially for short trips. Shared rides and using electric vehicles in microtransit can significantly reduce carbon emissions compared to single-occupancy car trips.
The need for clear communication
The first and last mile problem in transportation poses a significant barrier to efficient urban mobility, impacting public transit efficiency, traffic congestion, and environmental sustainability.
As more cities implement microtransit solutions, they must communicate with the community starting early in the process. Engaging users will provide essential data on the program’s implementation, such as peak times and locations for the service to be available, potential technology hurdles, and accessibility.
By focusing on community awareness and adoption, public transit organizations can promote microtransit solutions effectively. Some of the critical areas of focus include:
- Effective Communication: Implement multichannel communication strategies to reach diverse demographics and provide clear and consistent information about microtransit services.
- Community Engagement: Involve community members in planning and development processes, fostering a sense of ownership and trust in microtransit services.
- Real-Time Information: Invest in technology to provide real-time updates on service availability, routes, and schedules, enhancing user satisfaction.
- Equity and Accessibility: Ensure microtransit services are accessible and affordable for all, addressing the needs of vulnerable populations and overcoming language barriers.
- Sustainability Goals: Promote microtransit to reduce carbon emissions and support cleaner air initiatives, aligning with broader environmental objectives.
The ride forward
Promoting microtransit in the community is essential for solving the first and last mile problem. By raising awareness, encouraging adoption, and integrating microtransit with existing public transit systems, we can create a more efficient, accessible, and sustainable transportation network. Communities, policymakers, and transportation providers must work together to realize the full potential of microtransit solutions.
Granicus offers customers a wealth of engagement options. Thousands of government organizations currently use Granicus to communicate with citizens and stakeholders. Connect with us and let us show you how our digital communication & engagement solutions can help spread the word about the benefits of microtransit programs to build a better, more connected transportation future.
