SWUTC Research Project Description

Title of Project:  Examination of the Potential to Link Rural Communities with their Urban Neighbors

Project Number:  167903

Principal Investigator:
Ronald Goodwin
(713) 313-1959
P.I. Affiliation:  Texas Southern University

Project Monitor:
Veronica Baxter-Lamb,
Houston/Galveston Area Council
(713) 627-3200

Project Status:  Active

Date Started:  9/1/99

Estimation Completion Date:  8/31/00

Estimated Cost - Current Fiscal:  $31,451

Estimated Cost - Total Planned:  $31,451

Project Summary:
Project Abstract:
Through the coordinated efforts of the Department of Transportation and state level departments of transportation, the transportation needs of the rural populace are being met in innovative ways.  Studies are being conducted to determine varying levels of transportation models to accomplish the integration of rural transportation with that of adjacent urban areas.  However, before any type of coordination can be undertaken, two critical issues must be addressed:  1) the identification of the client population, and 2) their specific transportation needs (grocery stores, hospitals, of employment centers). Several transportation models exist to evaluate trends and make projections based in current information.  However, such technical tools often fail to anticipate changes in economy, new or modified roadways, and the impacts of changes in political policies.

Project Objectives:
This research study focuses on the demographic identification of the rural populace and a recognition of their transportation needs.  The data needed to identify the rural client base and their transportation deficiencies will be gained through contact with social service agencies, census data, city/county databases and field observations.  The study will use the case method approach and identify multiple counties/communities adjacent to a large urban city.  The relationship between the established urban transit provider and the rural communities will be determined and possible linkages discussed as appropriate.  However, this research will primarily focus on gathering information that will be useful to agencies seeking to coordinate transportation efforts into a seamless network for the benefit of the urban and rural populace.

Task Descriptions:
Task 1  Literature Review: 
A review of literature from different mediums will provide the back ground necessary to understand and evaluate the transportation needs of rural communities.

Task 2  Identify Variables: 
CTTR staff will determine the applicable variables from the review of literature that will yield the information desired from this study.

Task 3  Data Collection: 
Data collection activities will consist of interviews, demographic information and field observations.  The data collection process will involve state-of-the-art techniques and information.

Task 4  Data Analysis: 
The data analysis involves the complete extrapolation of acquired information into acceptable formats and style.

Task 5  Write Draft and Final Reports: 
A review of the preliminary draft report will indicate sufficient content, depth and substance, as well as adherence to SWUTC guidelines for research projects.  The final report will be submitted by the PI/research team in accordance with SWUTC standards.

Index Terms:
Rural Transit, Needs Assessment