This study describes and explains how transit agencies are making transformative changes in institutional and business models that equip them to handle forces that threaten the long-run efficiency, effectiveness, reliability, safety, and security of the nation’s public transportation systems. The research approach and conclusions of this study are based on 14 case studies of public transportation organizations that have implemented fundamental change. The case studies help explain what changes agencies are making, why they are making these changes, and how they are doing it. The study highlights transferable lessons that can help guide agencies that are undertaking or considering similar efforts. While the reasons for change and approaches to it vary widely, the 14 case studies highlighted in this research exemplify the significant potential for change that exists within the public transportation industry. In many of the regions examined, the change that happened was so fundamental as to transform the reach and role of multiple transportation organizations, including transit operators and regional planning agencies. (Author/publisher)
Abstract