Description
Providing first and last mile infrastructure improves access to transit and makes it a more attractive mode of transportation. First and last mile infrastructure can include closing gaps in sidewalks and bicycle facilities or even subsidizing access through the use of TNCs such as Uber and Lyft.
Implementation Details
- Prioritize infrastructure improvements that close gaps to transit hubs or high quality transit services.
- Partner with TNCs to provide subsidies or promo codes for short rides to and from SunLine stops, prioritizing service to employment hubs and community colleges such as College of the Desert, especially during off-peak or nighttime hours.
- Launch pilot programs in areas with limited active transportation infrastructure, to improve first/last mile connectivity.
- Implement geofenced pick-up/drop-off zones at high-ridership transit centers to streamline transfers and reduce conflicts with other modes.
- Use survey and ridership data to adapt incentive structure and eligibility criteria for low-income residents, youth, and seniors.
Mitigation Potential
This measure encourages a shift to transit by closing gaps in accessibility and improving connectivity. While no direct quantification methods are known at this time, this strategy is closely related to improving bicycle and pedestrian facilities. These linked strategies may be used as a proxy for quantification though may underestimate the VMT benefit of the strategy as transit trips are typically longer than active transportation trips.
Linked Strategies
- Active Transportation and Safe Routes to Schools
- Create Pedestrian Priority Zones
- Dedicate Land for Trails and Off-Street Multi-Use Facilities
- Improve Destination Accessibility
- Micromobility / New Mobility Programs
- Mobility Hubs
- Provide Bike Network / Facility Improvements
- Provide Pedestrian Network / Facility Improvements
Equity Considerations
Providing improved transit access through bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure increases the safety and ease of access for transit dependent persons. Subsidizing TNC (Transportation Network Company) services for first/last mile trips can fill mobility gaps for low-income residents, seniors, and persons with disabilities who live far from transit stops. Equity-focused design should ensure fare discounts apply to accessible ride options and prioritize service to historically underserved areas. Data privacy and multilingual app access should be considered to avoid technological exclusion.
Funding Sources
Funding sources include the Regional Active Transportation Program (Southern California Association of Governments – Riverside Region), and the Statewide Active Transportation Program (California Transportation Commission).
Examples/Case Studies
LA Metro Mobility on Demand Pilot
LA Metro partnered with Via and Lyft to offer subsidized TNC rides to and from key transit stations. The program focused on underserved areas and included fare caps for low-income riders