Author ORCID Identifier

https://orcid.org/0009-0001-9219-9656

Semester

Fall

Date of Graduation

2023

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Type

MS

College

Statler College of Engineering and Mineral Resources

Department

Civil and Environmental Engineering

Committee Chair

V. Dimitra Pyrialakou

Committee Member

Kakan Dey

Committee Member

Kevin Orner

Abstract

Historically, bike share system (BSS) station locations have been guided by potential economic and environmental benefits associated with increased bike share usage per station. For example, a typical location identification approach may attempt to maximize demand per station based on population size or activity and area characteristics. Such identification methods often result in an unequal representation of specific population groups among the systems’ users, thus hindering the potential sustainability-related benefits. To address these disparities, some bike share organizations have started developing and implementing equity-oriented programs focusing on expanding their reach to underserved communities. Nevertheless, the effectiveness of such programs has not yet been systematically evaluated and their impacts have not been quantified. This research uses a case study approach focusing on the BSS of the Pittsburgh, PA, metro area aiming to assess the effectiveness of a BSS equity-informed restructuring. The specific objectives of this research are as follows: 1) quantifying the usage of BSS in disadvantaged and affluent areas, before and after restructuring and 2) identifying the associations between access to bike share and infrastructure and population characteristics. Statistical and spatial analyses of Census, infrastructure, and pre- and post-restructuring BSS usage data were performed to discern potential disparities in the shift of usage across disadvantaged and affluent areas and to identify the associations between station locations, accessibility, and usage, with a focus on the effects on disadvantaged and affluent populations. Findings showed that equity programs can potentially improve the equity of the system; however, a more comprehensive planning approach is needed to enhance the accessibility of BSS across disadvantaged populations and communities. This research can guide effective planning efforts for new BSS development as well as BSS restructuring that go beyond the implementation of equity-focused programs.

Embargo Reason

Patent Pending

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