Policy decisions to provide fare free public transport is based on the assumption that it will reduce car use. However, several case studies show this is not the case. Car owners are strongly connected to their vehicles for many reasons. While more journeys might be made on free transport, it could lead to walking less. Nevertheless, free public transport is good for people on low incomes.
Fare-free public transport does not necessarily lead to less car use. However, it does lead to more people making more journeys. But what about social outcomes?
Free transport as social justice
A research paper from Norway looks as the impact of free public transport on social outcomes. In the process, it looks at case studies is several cities across the world. The paper covers attitudes towards free transport, accessibility, and the impact on travel behaviour.
Positive outcomes included benefits to low income people in most case studies, but not to increased employment. One of the findings is that when free transport is provided, it does not, by itself, equalise mobility for people. It’s much more complex than that.
Social plus environmental policy
The research paper turns to Stavanger, a large city in Norway that is committed to reducing their carbon footprint. Significant progress is underway with electric buses, intelligent traffic lights, and parking solutions. Cars, cyclists, buses, and pedestrians all have to be managed for the best outcomes for all.
Norway has an overarching policy of implementing universal design principles in the built environment, digital technology, and services. Consequently, transport accessibility is at a higher level than most other countries.
Rather than a widespread move away from driving, current transit users just used it more. However, the case studies generally show a small shift away from car use. Image from Life in Norway.
Service quality such as comfort and frequency needed to be carefully managed to retain customer satisfaction. This in turn can lead to greater costs in expanding and maintaining infrastructure. Nevertheless, people on low incomes can get about more easily and increase participation in everyday activities.
Respondents in the Stavanger study found financial barriers were removed with free transport. This enabled them to access healthcare, education and job possibilities. In the Stavanger case, the public awareness campaign was successful in encouraging a shift away from private vehicles. Emphasis on service quality is needed to continue this success.
From the conclusion
In Stavanger, free public transport advanced accessibility, public transport use, and social welfare outcomes. It has potential as a game-changing urban transportation policy. However, investments in infrastructure, service quality, and integration with more comprehensive urban planning initiatives are necessary to guarantee long-term sustainability.
Utilising technology such as Intelligent Transportation Systems and real-time updates will optimise services and improve user experience. Targeted education programs to highlight the advantages of public transport can encourage people to switch from driving their cars.
Working together with neighborhood organizations, businesses, and educational institutions can help to further promote public transportation as an accessible, equitable, and sustainable mode of transportation for all groups. Stavanger’s experience serves as a model for communities looking for fair and environmentally friendly transportation options.
The title of the article is, Impact of Free Public Transport Scheme on Social Welfare in Stavanger Municipality. A timely study when cities are mobilising to reduce carbon emissions and at the same time provide equitable transport options.
The Nordic Road and Transport Research magazine article also reviewed this research and compared it to an earlier study.
A local publication announces the introduction of fare free public transport in Stavanger.