The Potential for Shared Use Mobility in Affordable Housing Complexes in Rural California

Research Team: Caroline Rodier (lead) and Susan Pike

UC Campus(es): UC Davis

Problem Statement: In an effort to cost-effectively expand transportation options in rural communities, the eight San Joaquin Valley regional planning agencies have partnered with the Institute of Transportation Studies at UC Davis (ITS-Davis) to develop a pilot program that leverages new technology-driven, shared access services (e.g., ridesharing, carsharing) to enhance and/or complement traditional fixed-route transit service. One promising opportunity is working with affordable housing developers to provide on-site zero or near-zero emission carsharing and/or ridesharing services.

Project Description: A survey of low income residents at affordable housing complexes in the San Joaquin Valley of California was conducted to explore unmet transportation needs, willingness to use shared use mobility services, the potential for such services to reduce household vehicles and parking spaces, and awareness of public financial incentive programs to reduce vehicle emissions in the valley. The report finds that while very few respondents said they were unable to meet basic needs using their transportation resources, a majority did find that their transportation options limit their ability to receive medical attention, travel to their preferred grocery store and make social trips. The survey respondents showed an interest in using ridesourcing and carsharing but the lack of access to credit cards and bank accounts as well as language barriers pose challenges to using these services. Residents who responded to the survey were also not aware of public incentive programs that could help them access clean transportation options.

Status: Completed

Budget: $95,000