Automated vehicle-supported mobility Services for Rural Areas

Project Abstract

Access to safe, reliable, equitable, and affordable transportation services is vital for maximizing economic productivity and quality of life. However, underserved, under-represented, and marginalized communities, such as low-income and rural communities, carry disproportionate mobility burdens in our society that significantly impact their quality of life and economic opportunities [Martens et al., 2019]. High operational costs and limited funding of public transportation services are significant limitations in providing essential transportation services in these areas. In rural and small urban areas where funding is a major challenge, providing non-mandated services to improve the mobility of people is not always possible. Research assessing the needs of low-income rural communities and how autonomous vehicle (AV)-supported mobility service delivery models could meet those needs is limited [Breitenbach, 2022]. This study aims to develop AV-supported mobility service models in supporting travel demand of rural communities. The research team will share the findings with agencies with rural transportation service focus in WV. In addition, the findings will be presented in conferences and published in peer-reviewed journal.

Universities Involved

West Virginia University

Principle Investigators

Dr. Kakan Dey

Dr. David Martinelli

Funding Sources and Amounts

USDOT: $100,000

Start Date

September 1, 2023

Completion Date

September 1, 2024

Expected Research Outcomes & Impacts

This study performs transformative research by conducting a robust analysis of the planning and development of new innovative AV-supported mobility services for rural communities that could transform the availability of equitable and accessible mobility services for these communities. The developed new mobility service models could be adopted by other jurisdictions considering their unique local mobility scenarios. Policymakers and service providers can use the developed service models considering the regional/local demand and estimate the model’s financial and economic feasibility to improve mobility service availability, promote economic opportunities, and improve quality of life.

Subject Areas

Connected and Automated Vehicles, Rural Transit, Mobility