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Evaluating Universal Basic Mobility Pilot Programs in Oakland and Bakersfield, California

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  • Sanguinetti, Angela PhD
  • Alston-Stepnitz, Eli
  • Nelson, Leslie
  • Searl, Emily
  • DePew, Ashley

Abstract

Pilot programs in California and beyond are exploring universal basic mobility (UBM), which calls upon government actors to ensure that everyone can access transportation services for basic needs. UBM addresses the problem of transport poverty, which is defined in various ways but is generally when transportation spending puts one below the poverty line or transportation is exceedingly time-consuming, unsafe, or unavailable. This research evaluated UBM-inspired pilot programs in Oakland and Bakersfield, via pre- and post-pilot surveys and interviews during the programs. Both pilots provided free-fare transportation services (shared micromobility in both cities and public transit services in Oakland) to populations vulnerable to transport poverty (residents of a low-income, minority-majority community in East Oakland and current and former foster youth in Bakersfield). Participants replaced car trips and/or walking with shared mobility and/or public transportation and reported improved access to jobs, food, health care, and social and recreational opportunities. They were able to go more places, more efficiently, and perhaps even enjoy the trip. The services helped participants carry out activities with more comfort and dignity and yielded social and cultural benefits. Lessons learned for program design and administration include the need for: providing some car-based services; clear communications throughout the program; training/support components for new mobility options; troubleshooting operations; and planning for turnover in program staff and fast changes in micromobility services.

Suggested Citation

  • Sanguinetti, Angela PhD & Alston-Stepnitz, Eli & Nelson, Leslie & Searl, Emily & DePew, Ashley, 2024. "Evaluating Universal Basic Mobility Pilot Programs in Oakland and Bakersfield, California," Institute of Transportation Studies, Working Paper Series qt6j66v8kc, Institute of Transportation Studies, UC Davis.
    • Handle: RePEc:cdl:itsdav:qt6j66v8kc
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Cervero, Robert & Deakin, Elizabeth, 2008. "The Challenge of Urban Transportation in California," University of California Transportation Center, Working Papers qt3gt1r30m, University of California Transportation Center.
    2. Bull, Owen & Muñoz, Juan Carlos & Silva, Hugo E., 2021. "The impact of fare-free public transport on travel behavior: Evidence from a randomized controlled trial," Regional Science and Urban Economics, Elsevier, vol. 86(C).
    3. Brough, Rebecca & Freedman, Matthew & Phillips, David C., 2022. "Experimental evidence on the effects of means-tested public transportation subsidies on travel behavior," Regional Science and Urban Economics, Elsevier, vol. 96(C).
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