As transportation network companies like Uber and Bridj make it easier for some to opt out of the public transit system, a new app would help transit agencies offer more user-centric services.
Adele Peters shares news of the TransLoc app, a new startup that aims to provide the technology platform to enable public transit to compete with transportation network companies.
Peters describes TransLoc as "an app to help agencies quickly identify where riders are actually traveling so cities can start to offer services tailored to those needs." The app works by following the route of users as they travel around town. "That data builds maps that agencies can use to make routes more efficient, and eventually offer on-demand services."
Doug Kauffman, CEO of TransLoc, is quoted describing the potential benefit of the technology: "It would help agencies provide a transit service that is truly rider-centric: Vehicles coming to you, on your schedule, taking your location and destination into consideration…"
Kaufman believes that it's possible for all transit agencies to offer on-demand services, and, in fact, Helsinki is already experimenting with similar technology.
FULL STORY: This App Wants To Help Public Transit Compete With Uber
Lessons From Helsinki's Failed On-Demand Bus Experiment
Kutsuplus—an attempt to "reinvent carpooling for the algorithm age"—has failed in Helsinki. What can new systems, still operating in the United States, learn from its example?
Meet Boston's New Tech-Enabled 'Pop-Up' Bus Service
A private bus service launched this week in Boston that decides service based on crowdsourced data on where and when people need to travel.
On-Demand Transit in Houston: There's an App for That
The city of Houston this week launched an app for its Community Connector shuttle service as part of a ten-month pilot project.
Seattle Legalizes Co-Living
A new state law requires all Washington cities to allow co-living facilities in areas zoned for multifamily housing.
NYC Officials Announce Broadway Pedestrianization Project
Two blocks of the marquee street will become mostly car-free public spaces.
Denver's New High-Rise Integrates Vertical Canyon in Architectural Design
Unlike other new builds in Denver, Colorado, a new high-rise reveals a unique “sculptural canyon” running vertically through the facade to foster a sense of community and connection to nature.
California E-Bike Rebate Program Launches — Again
After a series of fits and starts, CARB says the program will begin accepting applications this month.
Analysis: Localized Upzoning Less Effective
Changing zoning rules for a small number of parcels can increase land values and housing costs without boosting the housing supply.
Amtrak Breaks Ridership Record in FY 2024
More Americans than ever rode the rails last year, also bringing the agency its highest ticket revenue.
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.
Caltrans
Heyer Gruel & Associates PA
Caltrans
American Planning Association, Sustainable Communities Division
HUDs Office of Policy Development and Research
HUDs Office of Policy Development and Research
City of Cambridge, Maryland
Newport County Development Council: Connect Greater Newport
Rockdale County Board of Commissioners