Public transport in Central America is currently facing a critical juncture: for a variety of reasons, policy leaders in the region are being forced to make choices that will decide whether or not public transport will continue to be the dominant mode of transport in the region's major cities. In order for this to occur, as the cases of Panama City, Managua and San Salvador illustrate, a thorough restructuring of the institutional and regulatory framework will need to be developed. In addition, strategic public investment will also be essential in providing the private sector operators with an adequate infrastructure. These changes should all be done with the needs and perspectives of the urban poor in mind, who make up the primary users of public transport. If accomplished, a key ingredient towards overall quality of life in Central American cities would be achieved. For the covering abstract see ITRD E116619.
Samenvatting