Project number: MT-16-07

Funding source: Caltrans

Contract number: 65A0533

Funding amount: $100,000

Performance period: 3/2/17 to 6/30/18

Project description

What are the travel behavior goals of transit-oriented developments (TODs) and are they achieving them? Does TOD policy fit all goals? This report examines the relationship between travel behavior, transit access, income, and neighborhood type in the context of environmental, system efficiency, and social equity goals. Based on analyses of four metropolitan areas in
California, the findings indicate that higher-income households reduce vehicle miles traveled (VMT) most, relative to households in other income categories, when living near transit regardless of neighborhood type. In contrast, lower-income households use the transit system more when living in denser, transit-served neighborhoods. Furthermore, empirical evidence suggests that lower-income households tend to own older vehicles, and are less likely to own hybrid or electric vehicles. Thus, although higher-income households reduce their VMT more relative to lower-income households when living near transit, households' reductions in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions may be even larger across income categories. In light of these observations, it seems that joint consideration of the needs and behaviors of both higher- and lower-income populations are integral when planning and establishing goals for TODs.