Low-density areas with an aging population could benefit from a public transportation system built specifically for the elderly and their care providers. Smaller buses or passenger vans could form a fleet making regular trips to senior care centers, health and recreation centers and grocery stores. Such an elder-dedicated program could create new jobs and more opportunities for federal funding. There is even a way to build the transportation fare into Medicaid billing.
Rural and sparsely populated communities can be served with multi-mode transit passes. One pass works across several bus, train and light-rail systems and covers several towns and counties. The system relies on one major transport hub or junction in each town that can deal with multi-mode transfers, from rail to road. This option offers residents a way to travel more economically, while also opening up new opportunities of tourism and public services.
For low-density areas that are experiencing the squeeze of public transportation due to rapid expansion and growth, semi-privatization could be an answer. Development companies are brought into a contract that asks them to contribute to to the growing transit profile of buses, light rail, or train. In turn, they can capitalize on retail opportunities around the transit hubs in their new developments. Not only does this encourage advances and funding for transportation, but it also give incentives to developers that want to grow and expand the community.
Areas that have sporadic transportation needs and little tourism could implement an on-call system that keeps a compact fleet offering affordable transportation only when needed. On-call transportation cuts out unnecessary vehicles and expenses, while customizing transport times around the individual needs of the community. Only the necessary regular routes are maintained throughout the day, while special stops and routes are activated on an as-needed basis.
