According to the pundits and prophets, the future of transportation is all figured out for us.
Thiseverything-stays-the-samevision ignores some significant social developments.
They account for a good share of the unexpected rise in public transit use, biking and walking.
Although baby boomers, who like to use a variety of travel options, are also a factor.
Walking, meanwhile, accounted for 8.8 percent of trips made by all older adults.
America’s transportation needs are changing as tens of millions of baby boomers approach their 70s.
Forty percent reported inadequate sidewalks in their neighborhoods.
Today we are experiencing arenaissance of urban growth, thanks in large part to new urban rail systems.
“In Salt Lake City, rail transit has catalyzed vibrant development,” says Mayor Ralph Becker.
“It has been key to achieving mobility and prosperity goals in our city.”
“WalkUPs are a crucial component in building and sustaining a thriving urban economy.
“They want to ride trains to work and entertainment.
This reduces the pressure for families to buy a car or a second car.
Young people today are driving less than previous generations.
An often overlooked benefit of broadening our transportation options beyond cars is improved public health.
Public transit also boosts physical activity.
Almost all bus and train trips involve a walk on both ends of the ride.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
The benefits of more transportation choices extend even to people who drive everywhere.
Recent research shows that trains and buses improve traffic congestion more than previously believed.
The choices made by these individuals have a “very high impact on congestion.
Jay Walljasper is a Minneapolis-based writer, consultant and speaker who specializes in livability topics.
