Exploring the Relationship Between Race, Class, and Transit Usage among Triangle, NC Residents (2024)

Undergraduate: Sneha Pasupula

Faculty Advisor: Malissa Alinor
Department: Public Policy

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This study investigates the interplay between financial insecurity and public transit ridership among low-income and racially marginalized residents in Chapel Hill, NC. Through a 10-question survey, financial security was assessed using subjective indicators such as financial anxiety and well-being, while public transit ridership focused specifically on Chapel Hill's bus services. Findings suggest a positive correlation between financial insecurity and bus ridership, although statistically insignificant. Contrary to expectations, racial marginalization displayed a negative association with bus ridership, albeit lacking statistical significance. Recommendations for future research include replicating the study with a more diverse and larger sample to enhance generalizability. Stakeholders, including policymakers and transit agencies, can utilize these findings to address transit access as an economic justice issue, guiding decisions on improving public transit infrastructure to ensure equitable access for marginalized communities in the Triangle, NC region.