Transportation Needs Assessment for Rural Communities: A Case of Pickens County, Alabama

TL;DR

This study assesses transportation needs in Pickens County, Alabama, highlighting access issues for vulnerable populations and public perceptions of demand-response bus services to inform rural transportation improvements.

Contribution

It provides a comprehensive mixed-methods analysis of transportation access and perceptions in a rural U.S. community, including vulnerable groups, which is rarely documented in detail.

Findings

Limited transportation access for vulnerable populations

Positive perception of demand-response bus service

Identified gaps in transportation for healthcare and employment

Abstract

The lack of transportation options and limited public transit service in rural areas of the United States may negatively affect residents quality of life by limiting employment, community engagement, education, and quality healthcare opportunities. This study used a mixed method approach combining quantitative and qualitative research methods to conduct the transportation needs assessment in Pickens County, Alabama. The study examined access to healthcare, jobs, and other relevant resources across all population categories in the area, including vulnerable populations, such as senior citizens, people with disabilities, and low-income households. Additionally, this study investigated public perceptions of and opinions about H.E.L.P. Inc., an origin-to-destination demand-response bus service for Pickens County residents. The study findings may be helpful to stakeholders, policymakers, and transportation services providers in the rural communities of the U.S., working to develop new approaches that would help meet the transportation needs of local communities.