CHARACTERIZATION OF UNDERSERVED POPULATION PERCEPTIONS AND MOBILITY NEEDS IN CONNECTED-VEHICLE AND SMARTER CITY ENVIRONMENTS

Abstract

This outreach effort aimed to better understand and characterize the mobility disadvantaged and underserved populations’ perceptions of, along with their safety-related mobility needs in, connected-vehicle and smart-city environments. It also aimed to educate and inform these communities about the opportunities for mobility and safety improvements that these technologies could provide. This report discusses the underserved populations and communities in both rural and urban areas in the Pacific Northwest (PNW). Overall, connected vehicle and smart mobility technologies, tools, and applications will play a crucial role in improving the mobility and safety for all underserved populations. These technologies will promote the independence, safety, and well-being of older persons, enabling them to maintain active and fulfilling lifestyles as they age. Similarly, the technologies will offer a range of benefits for people with physical and mental disabilities, enhancing their independence, safety, and overall quality of life. They also have the potential to address transportation challenges, promote cultural preservation, and improve access to essential services for Native American Tribes and communities. Oher mobility underserved populations, such as households with no car ownership, can have access to convenient, affordable, and sustainable transportation options that enhance mobility, connectivity, and quality of life for these underserved groups in both urban and rural communities. Examples of smart-city technologies that have the potential to assist underserved populations include adaptive technologies and personalized services for people with disabilities, AI-inclusive design, advanced driver assistance systems, real-time multimodal trip planning, enhanced safety features for older drivers, door-to-door mobility services, older population assistive technologies, age-friendly infrastructure, and on-demand transportation services.