What factors should you consider when designing a transportation network for diverse communities?

1 User needs and preferences

One of the first steps in designing a transportation network is to understand the needs and preferences of the potential users. Different communities may have different travel patterns, modes, destinations, and priorities. For example, some communities may prefer walking, biking, or public transit, while others may rely on cars or motorcycles. Some communities may need to access essential services, such as health care, education, or grocery stores, while others may seek recreational or cultural opportunities. Some communities may value convenience, speed, or comfort, while others may prioritize affordability, reliability, or safety. To design a network that meets the user needs and preferences, you should conduct surveys, interviews, focus groups, or other methods of data collection and analysis.

2 Spatial and temporal diversity

Another factor to consider is the spatial and temporal diversity of the communities and the transportation network. Spatial diversity refers to the variation in the physical characteristics, land use, density, and connectivity of different areas. Temporal diversity refers to the variation in the demand, supply, and performance of the transportation network over time. For example, some areas may have higher or lower demand for transportation during peak or off-peak hours, weekdays or weekends, or seasons or events. Some areas may have more or less supply of transportation options, such as roads, sidewalks, bike lanes, bus routes, or rail lines. Some areas may have better or worse performance of the transportation network, such as travel time, congestion, reliability, or safety. To design a network that accommodates the spatial and temporal diversity, you should use geographic information systems (GIS), traffic models, or other tools of spatial and temporal analysis.

3 Equity and inclusion

A third factor to consider is the equity and inclusion of the communities and the transportation network. Equity and inclusion refer to the fairness and participation of different groups of people in the transportation system. For example, some groups may face barriers or disadvantages in accessing or using the transportation network, such as low-income, elderly, disabled, women, children, ethnic minorities, or immigrants. Some groups may have less or no voice or representation in the transportation planning and decision-making process. Some groups may bear more or less costs or benefits of the transportation network, such as environmental, social, or economic impacts. To design a network that promotes equity and inclusion, you should use equity indicators, impact assessments, or other methods of evaluation and monitoring.

4 Safety and security

A fourth factor to consider is the safety and security of the communities and the transportation network. Safety and security refer to the protection and prevention of harm or risk to the people and the infrastructure of the transportation system. For example, some communities may face higher or lower exposure or vulnerability to traffic accidents, injuries, or fatalities. Some communities may face higher or lower exposure or vulnerability to crime, violence, or terrorism. Some communities may face higher or lower exposure or vulnerability to natural disasters, such as floods, earthquakes, or landslides. To design a network that enhances safety and security, you should use safety audits, security assessments, or other methods of risk management and mitigation.

6 Stakeholder engagement and collaboration

A sixth factor to consider is the stakeholder engagement and collaboration of the communities and the transportation network. Stakeholder engagement and collaboration refer to the involvement and cooperation of the different actors and interests in the transportation system. For example, some stakeholders may include the users, providers, regulators, planners, designers, builders, operators, or maintainers of the transportation network. Some stakeholders may have more or less power, influence, or responsibility in the transportation system. Some stakeholders may have more or less conflicts, synergies, or trade-offs in the transportation system. To design a network that fosters stakeholder engagement and collaboration, you should use stakeholder analysis, participation methods, or other tools of communication and coordination.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?