Image description: Public transportation use is at its highest since the 1950s, as shown in this chart that goes through 2009. 2011 levels (not pictured) were second only to 2008. Reasons for this most recent rise in public transit ridership?
- High gas prices, just like in 2008.
- Economic rebound in some areas has more people commuting to work.
- Information technology, like apps that tell arrival times, make it easier.
Rural communities with populations under 100,000 showed the highest growth in public transit use in 2011, at 5.4%
On the graph, “Heavy Rail” means subways and commuter rails. “All Other” includes trolleys, light rail, and more.
Information courtesy of the American Public Transportation Association, an advocacy organization that partners with the U.S. Department of Transportation.
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