Equity
RELATED TOPICS: Vision Zero, Health, Community Engagement
Historically, many low-income communities and underserved populations have been left out of conversations about transportation planning and this has led to unsafe conditions where pedestrians and bicyclists are over-represented in crashes. An equitable transportation system fosters fairness and helps facilitate access to opportunities for all community members. Equity can be considered both a process and an outcome. To achieve transportation equity, and transportation justice, communities must engage in inclusionary, authentic outreach to address underlying disparities of mobility and access and prioritize equity during all stages of the planning and implementation process. This involves building an accessible, affordable, and reliable transportation network that effectively serves all people. Discriminatory enforcement of traffic laws is a form of transportation inequity.
Transportation equity requires understanding the unique needs and safety concerns of different populations and providing the appropriate amount of resources to each group. Numerous studies have shown that enhancing the ability of traditionally underserved populations to travel via nonmotorized modes can potentially lead to improved outcomes in public health, safety, and economic development; promote economic development and resource efficiency; strengthen inclusive neighborhood relations; and bolster public transit services. Benefits of an equitable transportation system positively impact the entire community.
Resources
Guidebook for Developing Pedestrian and Bicycle Performance Measures
U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT)
Helps communities develop performance measures that can integrate pedestrian and bicycle planning into ongoing performance management activities.
Bicycle and Transit Integration Guide
American Public Transportation Association
Illustrates best practices for seamlessly integrating bicycle travel with transit at every point, and discusses the benefits of flexible mobility choices.
From Policy to Practice: A Guide to Measuring Complete Streets Progress
National Complete Streets Coalition, Smart Growth America
Outlines strategies for local agencies to effectively measure the impacts and equity of Complete Streets policies.
Incorporating Qualitative Data in the Planning Process: Improving Project Delivery and Outcomes
US Department of Transportation (USDOT)
Provides tools and resources to engage communities.
Leveraging SS4A Funding to Right-Size Enforcement
Vision Zero Network
Provides examples and guidance on using Safe Streets and Roads for All funding for traffic enforcement.
More Resources >
Examples
Case Studies on Micromobility in the United States
Federal Highway Administration (FHWA)
Offers a compilation of case studies focused on micromobility programs.
Shared Micromobility Pilot Promotes Access in Fort Smith, Arkansas
Federal Highway Administration (FHWA)
Reports on a bikeshare pilot in Fort Smith, AR, aimed at developing a long-term pricing strategy, securing funding, and effectively placing stations to support low-income communities.
Integrating the Safe System Approach into California’s Strategic Highway Safety Plan
Federal Highway Administration (FHWA)
Offers a case study of the Safe System Approach in California’s Strategic Highway Safety Plan.
Noteworthy Practice: VDOT Pedestrian Safety Action Plan
Federal Highway Administration (FHWA)
Offers a case study on Virginia DOT Pedestrian Safety Action Plan.
Midwest Transportation Landscape Assessment
The Funders Network
Covers a report examining how advocates are transforming the transportation system in seven states.
