A new report describes the important roles that public transit plays in rural communities and small towns, current demographic and economic trends that are increasing these demands, and examples of successful rural transit development programs.
A new report, "Public Transportation’s Impact on Rural and Small Towns: A Vital Mobility Link" [pdf] by the American Public Transportation Association and the Community Transportation Association of America describes the important roles that public transit plays in small towns and rural communities, examples of rural community public transport programs, and responses to common rural transit myths.
Public transportation helps rural communities become more efficient and equitable. It allows all residents, including non-drivers, enjoy independent mobility and receive a fair share of public spending on transportation facilities and services. Although public transit serves only a minor portion of total rural travel, many of those trips are crucial, including access to healthcare, basic shopping, employment and education.
This report describes current demographic and economic trends that are increasing demands for affordable mobility options in rural communities, including aging population, high poverty rates, and a large portion of military veterans. Serving these demands can provide multiple benefits; it helps rural residents age in place and attracts new residents, businesses and tourists. However, many of these benefits can be overlooked or undervalued in formal transportation planning. As a result, the importance of rural public transit improvements is often under estimated.
FULL STORY: Public Transportation’s Impact on Rural and Small Towns: A Vital Mobility Link

Planetizen Federal Action Tracker
A weekly monitor of how Trump’s orders and actions are impacting planners and planning in America.

Canada vs. Kamala: Whose Liberal Housing Platform Comes Out on Top?
As Canada votes for a new Prime Minister, what can America learn from the leading liberal candidate of its neighbor to the north?

The Five Most-Changed American Cities
A ranking of population change, home values, and jobs highlights the nation’s most dynamic and most stagnant regions.

‘Quality Work, Fast’: NC Gears up for Homebuilding After Helene, Trying to Avoid Past Pitfalls
The state will field bids to demolish, repair and rebuild homes in the mountains. After struggles in eastern NC, officials aim to chart a different course.

Washington State’s Parking Reform Law Could Unlock ‘Countless’ Acres for New Housing
A law that limits how much parking cities can require for residential amd commercial developments could lead to a construction boom.

Wildlife Rebounds After the Eaton Fire
Following the devastation of the Eaton Fire, the return of wildlife and the regrowth of native plants are offering powerful signs of resilience and renewal.
Urban Design for Planners 1: Software Tools
This six-course series explores essential urban design concepts using open source software and equips planners with the tools they need to participate fully in the urban design process.
Planning for Universal Design
Learn the tools for implementing Universal Design in planning regulations.
Central Transportation Planning Staff/Boston Region MPO
Heyer Gruel & Associates PA
Institute for Housing and Urban Development Studies (IHS)
City of Grandview
Harvard GSD Executive Education
Regional Transportation Commission of Southern Nevada
Toledo-Lucas County Plan Commissions