Connecticut launches micro-transit pilot to enhance accessibility

Connecticut Launches Micro-Transit Pilot Programme to Enhance Accessibility

Credit: Connecticut Department of Transportation

Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

• Goal 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure
• Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
• Goal 17: Partnerships for the Goals

The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) has announced the launch of a micro-transit pilot programme aimed at enhancing transportation accessibility and addressing transportation gaps in underserved areas. This initiative, led by Governor Ned Lamont and Transportation Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto, will introduce on-demand micro-transit services in select communities across the state.

Micro-transit offers flexible and user-friendly transportation solutions, allowing commuters to request and schedule rides within designated service areas through smartphone apps or telephone services. The pilot programme, which will span two years with potential extensions, aims to mitigate transportation challenges and improve connectivity, particularly in areas lacking robust transit infrastructure.

Paris metro stations equipped with accessible real-time information panels

Governor Lamont stated, “This new programme will help seniors and people with disabilities travel in parts of our state that have historically been underserved by public transportation. These services allow people to use an app or phone number to request and schedule a ride within designated areas, connecting them to restaurants, entertainment, rail stations, airports, and critical services.”

Commissioner Eucalitto added, “Micro-transit brings public transportation to communities that have lacked fixed route bus service. Thank you to Governor Ned Lamont and the state legislature for the continued investment in high-quality public transportation that eliminates gaps between communities and increases access and mobility throughout our state.”

Roll-out Schedule

1. 26 March 2024: Norwalk Transit District: Serving Norwalk
2. 1 April 2024: Greater Hartford Transit: Serving Enfield and portions of East Windsor, Southeast Area Transit (SEAT): Serving Groton, New London, and Valley Transit District: Serving Ansonia Train Station, Derby, and Shelton
3. 6 April 2024: Southeast Area Transit (SEAT): Stonington HOP
4. 8 April 2024: Milford Transit: Serving Milford
5. 22 April 2024: Greater Bridgeport Transit: Serving Trumbull
6. 6 May 2024: Southeast Area Transit (SEAT): New London Smart, Serving Waterford
7. 28 May 2024: River Valley Transit (Estuary Transit): Serving Madison, Guilford, and portions of East Hampton and Middletown
8. 1 July 2024: City of Stamford: Serving a five-mile boundary within the city
9. 30 July 2024: City of New Haven: Serving Hill, West River, Dwight, Edgewood, Beaver Hills, and West Rock neighbourhoods.

This micro-transit initiative builds upon existing micro-transit services in Connecticut, offering greater accessibility and convenience for all residents.

SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

1. Which SDGs are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article?

• SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure
• SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
• SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities

2. What specific targets under those SDGs can be identified based on the article’s content?

• SDG 9.1: Develop quality, reliable, sustainable, and resilient infrastructure, including regional and transborder infrastructure, to support economic development and human well-being.
• SDG 11.2: By 2030, provide access to safe, affordable, accessible, and sustainable transport systems for all.
• SDG 10.2: By 2030, empower and promote the social, economic, and political inclusion of all, irrespective of age, sex, disability, race, ethnicity, origin, religion or economic or other status.

3. Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?

• Indicator for SDG 9.1: Number of people with access to reliable and sustainable transportation services.
• Indicator for SDG 11.2: Percentage of population with access to affordable and accessible transportation services.
• Indicator for SDG 10.2: Number of underserved communities with improved transportation accessibility.

Table: SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

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Source: intelligenttransport.com

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