Analyzing the Effects of COVID-19 on Human Mobility and Transit Ridership in the Pacific Northwest Region

Abstract

This study investigated the effects of COVID-19 on trip reductions and decreases in transit ridership in the Pacific Northwest region of the United States, encompassing Washington, Oregon, Idaho, and Alaska. By utilizing multiple data sources, we found that work-related trips in the region declined by more than 30 percent since March of 2020. In contrast, after the summer of 2020, there was an evident recovery of non-work-related trips (e.g., trips to parks and grocery stores). Our results also indicated that public transit ridership diminished by 40 to 90 percent by May of 2020, and its recovery remained extremely slow even after reopening of the economy. The results of panel regression analysis further suggested that social vulnerability and health insurance coverage were significant predictors of changes in human mobility. In addition, public-transit ridership was more likely to rebound in areas with relatively high COVID-19 infection rates. We concluded the report by arguing that supporting socially vulnerable communities and the public transit workforce will be critical for combating the detrimental social impacts of COVID-19, especially under the phasing out of travel restrictions and stay-at-home orders.