Project Background and Data Collection Objectives

The objective of this synthesis is to document the current practice of transit systems using non traditional indicators to improve equity in service planning and the customer experience. The study will focus on understanding how transit agencies establish goals and the key performance indicators and targets used to measure performance and outcomes of these goals. 

A “non-traditional performance indicator” is broadly defined as a metric that can be tracked (e.g., rider perceptions or affordability of a complete multi-modal trip) but which has not been historically used to gauge performance in the transit industry. As equity continues to be acknowledged as a critical aspect of transit service, new methods of gauging levels of equity, via non-traditional indicators, have begun to emerge.

What is a TCRP synthesis project?

A quick-turnaround project that aims to document the current state of the practice in transit. 

Who should participate in the data collection process?

• Transit staff

• Transit stakeholders and others that work to hold transit accountable

How is equity defined?

To guide this data collection effort and provide respondents with a shared understanding of what equity means within the context of the project, the following definition of equity in transit will be used: 

Equity in transit is the fair and just distribution of the benefits and burdens associated with transit services and infrastructure across communities to address the needs of the people in a manner that acknowledges and accounts for historical and current disparities, considers and supports people’s unique circumstances and abilities, and continues to evolve as these factors change. At minimum, transit benefits are presumed to include sufficient access to destinations and opportunities.