THE LONG JOURNEY TO WORK: A FEDERAL TRANSPORTATION POLICY FOR WORKING FAMILIES

This paper discusses the effects of poor access to transportation on the employment and economic well being of many working low income families. It notes that research confirms that economic outcomes are enhanced when people have access to good transportation services, especially if the access is to automobiles. The paper offers specific policy recommendations to improve access to transportation for the low income worker, depending on the metropolitan area and neighborhood in which the worker resides. Recommendations include improved paratransit services, expanded fixed-route public transit, door-to-door transit services, and automobile access programs.