Which Way Forward? Learning from Global Informal Transport Networks to Inform Microtransit Services in California

This proposed 12-month study seeks to draw upon lessons learned from informal transit systems, particularly from the developing world, to inform the development and implementation of demand-responsive transit (often referred to microtransit) strategies in California. Through a comprehensive review of existing literature, case studies (n= up to 5), and expert interviews (n=15-20), this study aims to identify lessons learned, challenges, and opportunities associated with informal transit operations. Leveraging this understanding, the research will assess how such lessons can be applied to the design, deployment, and evaluation of microtransit and other demand-responsive services in California communities, including transportation network companies (TNC) and taxi models. Key areas of focus include business and operational models, fare affordability and financial sustainability (including operational costs), and potential policy frameworks. By synthesizing insights from informal transit experiences internationally, this proposed study seeks to contribute to the development of efficient and sustainable microtransit and demand-responsive strategies tailored to the diverse needs of all travelers.

• Record URL:
  • https://www.metrans.org/research/which-way-forward-learning-from-global-informal-transport-networks-to-inform-microtransit-services-in-california

Language

• English

Project

• Status: Active
• Funding: $80,000.00
• Contract Numbers:

  65A1372

• Sponsor Organizations:

  Office of the Assistant Secretary for Research and Technology

  University Transportation Centers Program
  Department of Transportation
  Washington, DC  United States  20590
• Managing Organizations:

  Pacific Southwest Region University Transportation Center

  University of Southern California
  Los Angeles, CA  United States  90089
• Project Managers:

  Hong, Jennifer

• Performing Organizations:

  Pacific Southwest Region University Transportation Center

  University of Southern California
  Los Angeles, CA  United States  90089

  University of California Berkeley

  Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering
  416C McLaughlin Hall
  Berkeley, California  United States  94720
• Principal Investigators:

  Shaheen, Susan

• Start Date: 20260401
• Expected Completion Date: 20270201
• Actual Completion Date: 0
• USDOT Program: University Transportation Centers Program

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Demand responsive transportation; Literature reviews; Micromobility; Ridesourcing; Sustainable transportation; Taxi services
• Geographic Terms: California
• Subject Areas: Operations and Traffic Management; Planning and Forecasting; Public Transportation;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 01987038
• Record Type: Research project
• Source Agency: Pacific Southwest Region University Transportation Center
• Contract Numbers: 65A1372
• Files: UTC, RIP
• Created Date: Apr 23 2026 6:05PM