Transportation and Transit Equity

Many of New Jersey’s large cities are characterized by low levels of job growth. Emerging employment opportunities are concentrated in the economic activity of communities in the suburban ring. For urban residents, reaching these jobs is a challenge. A comprehensive study has shown that nearly 40 percent of urban low-income households do not own automobiles. Moreover, many of these suburban jobs are not easily accessible by public transportation. In addition, the impact of driver's license suspension in New Jersey disproportionately affects low-income individuals who experience difficulty paying fines, fees and interest associated with restoration. Taken together, these factors form a significant barrier and constraint on employment options for urban residents.

The Institute works to develop alternatives that can address transportation and public transit as a barrier to employment and expand the ability of urban residents to access good jobs, where ever they are.

Efforts to date include:

• A comprehensive report examining issues related to Transportation Equity and Transportation as a barrier to employment.
• A workshop on Transportation and Transit Options to Link Urban Residents to Opportunity.

«back