Advisor(s)

Virginia Sisiopiku

Committee Member(s)

Akhlaque Haque
Avinash Unnikrishnan
Muhammad Sherif
Robin Foley

Document Type

Dissertation

Date of Award

6-18-2026

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

School

School of Engineering

Department

Civil Engineering

Abstract

A transportation system is designed to connect people to essential community resources and support their mobility needs. However, transportation facilities and services in lower-income communities often fail to meet local demands, restricting access to jobs, healthcare, recreation, and other critical services. These gaps disproportionately impact lower-income and vulnerable populations, reducing mobility and overall quality of life. This study aims to (a) define transportation inequity and the measures used to assess it; (b) summarize existing inequities across the United States; (c) examine travel choices, needs, and barriers in lower-income communities in Birmingham, Alabama; and (d) propose strategies to address transportation inequity in Birmingham. To accomplish these goals, a comprehensive literature review identified structural and socioeconomic contributors to inequitable transportation outcomes. A questionnaire survey was then developed and administered to residents in underserved Birmingham neighborhoods to document transportation behaviors and needs. Census data and the Shape BHAM HCAT Tool were used to identify a representative community. Because transportation surveys often miss underserved users with limited internet access, literacy barriers, disabilities, or financial hardship, participant recruitment included in-person outreach and collaboration with local agencies. Ninety-eight survey responses were analyzed using statistical methods to identify patterns and determine how socioeconomic factors shape travel choices. Results show vehicle ownership is the strongest predictor of travel mode use. Households without access to a car rely heavily on public transit and shared modes such as walking, rideshare, and paratransit. Income and disability status also influenced decisions to skip travel, highlighting broader inequities in access. Respondents emphasized the need for greater investment in public transit as well as roadway and sidewalk improvements. The study also highlights the growing importance of digital infrastructure. While vehicle ownership remains a central determinant of access, internet connectivity increasingly affects how individuals navigate transportation barriers. This suggests that future transportation policies should integrate improvements in transit service, roadway conditions, vehicle affordability, and digital access. Overall, the findings underscore the role of transportation equity in shaping economic mobility, health outcomes, and social inclusion. The study offers data-driven insights for policymakers and transit agencies in Birmingham and other mid-sized Southern cities facing similar mobility challenges.

Keywords

access;inequity;socio-economic characteristics;Transportation equity;transportation survey

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