Environmental conditions and the isolation of communities in Alaska impose unique constraints on transportation. As a result, publictransportation plays a more important role than would be experienced elsewhere. The objectives of this paper are to report on a study conducted to obtain general information on the type of transit and paratransit service options currently utilized in rural Alaska and to discuss issues related to future implementation of public transportation as well as future studies and information exchange. It was found that a wide range of options was utilized. Although it is not surprising that a taxi service is found in very small communities, the existence of a regular bus service there is unexpected. However, there is room for further implementation of public transportation in Alaska. Documentation on the use of public transportation in rural Alaska is largely nonexistent. Communities in Alaska could benefit greatly from the dissemination of public transportation case studies. These studies include the organization and regulation of public transportation, joint use of vehicles, and increased use of public transportation during emergencies and periods of inclement weather. The Rural Technology Transfer Program of the Federal Transit Administration could play a valuable role in the exchange of useful information. (A)
Abstract