A study shows that climate change-related extreme weather is causing a drop in public transit ridership across major U.S. networks. As conditions worsen, the impact on health and mobility for vulnerable populations increases, necessitating immediate infrastructure improvements and climate-adaptive measures to enhance transit sustainability.
A recent study involving 43 major U.S. transit networks indicates that ridership on public transit is decreasing during extreme weather events associated with climate change. Data spanning 17 years, up to 2019, shows that this decline occurs during intense rain, heat, and other adverse weather, irrespective of the community demographic variations. While the drop in ridership may seem minimal, it raises concerns as consequences could escalate with worsening climate conditions.
The study highlights passengers’ struggles, particularly in extreme temperatures and conditions. Nicole Ngo, the lead author, emphasized the discomfort of waiting for buses in oppressive heat, risking health, especially for vulnerable groups like older adults, who rely on public transit. Additionally, extreme weather can hinder transit services, as buses face traffic congestion and trains must operate at reduced speeds or cancel services due to rail issues.
Extended periods of intense weather drastically affect ridership, compounding the challenges faced by lower-income residents dependent on public transportation for access to essential services, including neighborhood cooling centers. The cumulative impacts of consecutive hot days exacerbate travel behavior, affecting the population’s health and mobility prospects.
Ngo further explains that addressing climate change requires recognizing its effects on public transit ridership. To counteract these issues, improvements in transit service, along with climate resilience measures at stops—including shade and cooling vegetation—are crucial. Presently, only a fraction of U.S. bus stops feature basic shelters, highlighting the urgent need for enhancements.
While acknowledging the political climate hampers progress, Ngo insists it is vital for leaders to acknowledge the reality of climate change and its impact on transit operations. The increasing frequency of extreme weather necessitates a proactive approach by cities and transit agencies to mitigate its effects on ridership and economic viability.
This study showcases the interconnectedness of climate change and public transit ridership, emphasizing the immediate need for infrastructure improvements and readiness to confront ongoing environmental challenges.
In conclusion, the reduction in public transit ridership during extreme weather events highlights the critical relationship between climate change and transit sustainability. As climate conditions worsen, the need for improving public transit infrastructure and implementing adaptive measures becomes imperative. This issue demands immediate attention from policymakers to ensure the health and reliability of transit systems for all communities, especially vulnerable populations.
Original Source: usa.streetsblog.org
