Transit Equity Gaps Study

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What is the Transit Equity Gaps Study?

Now in its second phase, the Transit Equity Gaps Analysis is our effort to improve how Baltimore residents connect to livable wage jobs and essential services. This builds on our initial work examining the city’s public transit network and recommending changes that promote greater equity across the system.

Wasn’t there previously work done on a transit equity study?

Yes. In 2020–2021, we partnered with the Baltimore Metropolitan Council to create a “Transit Equity Score” using demographic and transportation accessibility data. That methodology played a key role in shaping the City’s Transit Development Plan, which was finalized in 2022.

What does the Transit Equity Score measure?

The score considers factors like race, poverty, disability status, vehicle access, education, employment, and how people get to work. It helps us understand which neighborhoods face the biggest transportation challenges.

How will you decide which neighborhoods to focus on?

We’ll update our Transit Equity Score using the most recent data and analyze commuting patterns to identify “desire lines”—the most frequently traveled routes that connect priority neighborhoods to major employment centers. These desire lines show us where transit improvements can have the biggest impact.

What kinds of recommendations will come out of this study?

We’re focused on realistic, actionable steps. These could include:

  • New or modified fixed-route transit services
  • First/last mile infrastructure improvements
  • New micromobility options
  • Other enhancements to the transportation network
  • We’ll also provide recommendations for the Maryland Department of Transportation’s Transit Administration (MDOT MTA) to consider.

Will the community have input on these recommendations?

Absolutely. We’ll be hosting pop-ups at high-ridership transit stops, attending community association meetings, holding open houses and formal public meetings, and sharing surveys to gather feedback. Public engagement begins in the Spring of 2025. If you’re not able to join us at any of our public engagement events, feel free to leave a question or comment below.

What is the Transit Equity Gaps Study?

Now in its second phase, the Transit Equity Gaps Analysis is our effort to improve how Baltimore residents connect to livable wage jobs and essential services. This builds on our initial work examining the city’s public transit network and recommending changes that promote greater equity across the system.

Wasn’t there previously work done on a transit equity study?

Yes. In 2020–2021, we partnered with the Baltimore Metropolitan Council to create a “Transit Equity Score” using demographic and transportation accessibility data. That methodology played a key role in shaping the City’s Transit Development Plan, which was finalized in 2022.

What does the Transit Equity Score measure?

The score considers factors like race, poverty, disability status, vehicle access, education, employment, and how people get to work. It helps us understand which neighborhoods face the biggest transportation challenges.

How will you decide which neighborhoods to focus on?

We’ll update our Transit Equity Score using the most recent data and analyze commuting patterns to identify “desire lines”—the most frequently traveled routes that connect priority neighborhoods to major employment centers. These desire lines show us where transit improvements can have the biggest impact.

What kinds of recommendations will come out of this study?

We’re focused on realistic, actionable steps. These could include:

  • New or modified fixed-route transit services
  • First/last mile infrastructure improvements
  • New micromobility options
  • Other enhancements to the transportation network
  • We’ll also provide recommendations for the Maryland Department of Transportation’s Transit Administration (MDOT MTA) to consider.

Will the community have input on these recommendations?

Absolutely. We’ll be hosting pop-ups at high-ridership transit stops, attending community association meetings, holding open houses and formal public meetings, and sharing surveys to gather feedback. Public engagement begins in the Spring of 2025. If you’re not able to join us at any of our public engagement events, feel free to leave a question or comment below.

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Page published: 27 May 2025, 07:15 AM