Recent findings show that ridership on climate-friendly transit is declining due to worsening weather conditions linked to climate change. A study of 43 U.S. transit networks between 2002 and 2019 highlights that adverse weather, particularly heat and rain, negatively affects ridership, especially among vulnerable populations. Experts urge transit agencies to improve infrastructure to accommodate passengers during extreme weather events.
Recent research identifies a detrimental trend: ridership on climate-conscious transit is declining, even as climate change exacerbates adverse weather conditions. A study investigating 43 major U.S. transit networks revealed that ridership decreased during prolonged extreme weather events, such as heavy rain or heat, between 2002 and 2019. This decline persisted regardless of variations in climate or demographic factors across different communities, as analyzed through data from the National Transit Database.
The analysis indicates that while the decline is modest—primarily affecting those with alternative means of transport—the impact of climate-related losses on ridership may worsen. Nicole Ngo, the lead author of the study, pointed out, “Even now, you can end up waiting outside for the bus for quite a while, and that’s very uncomfortable in 90-degree heat.” Vulnerable populations, particularly older adults who rely on public transit, face increased risks due to extreme weather.
The effects of climate change extend beyond discouraging riders from using transit. During severe weather, transportation services can be disrupted; buses may become trapped in traffic or experience delays, while heat can warp rail tracks, forcing transit agencies to slow down operations or cancel service. The compounding nature of extreme weather events, especially during heat waves, exacerbates ridership issues and poses health risks, particularly for low-income residents reliant on public transport to access cooling centers.
Ngo emphasized that rising temperatures and climate challenges spur not merely individual travel choices but also air quality and health issues affecting the community. “It’s not just a matter of very hot days affecting travel behavior,” she stated. The connection between climate change and reducing transit ridership necessitates significant reforms within transit networks to accommodate user needs during adverse weather.
Ngo advocates for enhancing transit systems by integrating climate-resilient measures at stops, such as providing shade, air conditioning, or vegetation for cooling. Currently, only 20% of U.S. bus stops feature basic shelters, highlighting the need for substantial investment in improving passenger comfort during extreme weather events. While acknowledging the political challenges in addressing climate change, she insists that awareness of extreme weather’s impact on transit systems is crucial for sustaining ridership and protecting public health in the long term.
In conclusion, climate change significantly influences public transit ridership, particularly during extreme weather events, leading to increased discomfort and potential health risks, particularly for vulnerable populations. The complexities of this issue call for urgent reforms in transit infrastructure and climate preparedness to ensure equitable access and sustain ridership levels. It is imperative for policymakers to recognize the long-term implications of climate impacts on transit systems, enabling effective strategies that adapt to and mitigate these challenges.
Original Source: usa.streetsblog.org
