Getting Us There: Transportation Systems in Urban Regions And The Effect on Quality of Life

Abstract

This paper will attempt to explore the complex interconnections between transportation systems and the lives of those who use them. First, an overview of the history of transportation in the United States and a summary of the current state of affairs helps to identify what the major problems and issues are. The human aspect of transportation is the major focus, looking at quality of life indicators and measures, livability, psychological sense of community in relation to engagement in planning and advocacy, and public health and safety. Certain groups are more affected than others in these areas. The mobility poor are groups of people who are adversely affected by our current system. Transportation is in this framework not simply a tool for connecting point A to point B, but a civil rights and social justice issue. Finally, some of the solutions to the problems identified will be discussed.