Equity in Transit

Equity Metrics

Each of the following metrics suggests inadequate or mismatched transit service among disadvantaged groups:

• Low mode share
• Low per-capita linked trips
• Longer transit travel times
• Higher transit travel cost
• Overcrowding
• Long actual maximal headways
• Low per-capita line and stop density

This is particularly important for low-income families that are car-less and are thereby often transit-dependent.  While a rider with modal choice may be sensitive to a longer travel time or a higher out-of-pocket cost, someone who is transit dependent will continue to bear that burden on transit, regardless of that situation’s implicit fairness.

Summary Table of Transit Network Characteristics and Equity Metrics

The following chart is adapted from Kramer and Goldstein's article "Meeting the Public's Need for Transit Options: Characteristics of Socially Equitable Transit Networks."

Transit Network Characteristic	Metrics and Strategies
Radial vs. Multidirectional Networks	A more equitable transit network has a lower peak to off-peak level of service ratio.
Mode: Rail vs. Bus	Compare modal distributions for different trip markets.
Speed of Transit	Crowded or congested bus routes can be improved using Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) and/or some of its characteristics: signal priority, all-door boarding, dedicated or semi-dedicated lanes, etc.
Stop Spacing	Balance objectives of speed and walk distance depending on type of service needed.
Frequency and Span	Ensure a core network of frequent, all-day service to cover areas of high demand.
Reliability	Measure and improve headway spacing and on-time arrivals.
Capacity	Measure levels of crowding.
Cost	Identify trip patterns of lower-income populations and adjust fares to ensure these trips' affordability.