Identifying Transit Deserts by Using Linear Regression and Clustering Algorithms

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Bibliographic Details
Title: Identifying Transit Deserts by Using Linear Regression and Clustering Algorithms
Authors: Emma Yumeng Wang
Source: Highlights in Science, Engineering and Technology. 148:1-6
Publisher Information: Darcy & Roy Press Co. Ltd., 2025.
Publication Year: 2025
Description: As cities strive to increase sustainable transportation options, understanding and addressing transit deserts—areas where public transit is insufficient to meet residents’ needs—becomes essential. This study examines transit deserts within Chicago by integrating sociodemographic data and public transit usage patterns. Through linear regression and clustering methods, key population characteristics influencing passengers’ reliance on public transit across community areas are identified. Additionally, the analysis of Divvy bike usage data highlights disparities in bike station distribution, with most stations concentrated in central Chicago. This concentration limits transportation accessibility for outer areas, which may have latent demand for increased transit options. Our findings suggest potential high-demand areas lacking adequate service, supporting the case for a strategic redistribution of transit resources. The methodology and insights of this study extend beyond Chicago, offering a framework for identifying transit deserts in other urban centers to enhance equitable transit access and improve urban mobility infrastructure.
Document Type: Article
ISSN: 3080-1761
2791-0210
DOI: 10.54097/zwm6vs34
Rights: CC BY NC
Accession Number: edsair.doi...........84babbcf01db9f467aa60a11cbc3e040
Database: OpenAIRE
Description
Abstract:As cities strive to increase sustainable transportation options, understanding and addressing transit deserts—areas where public transit is insufficient to meet residents’ needs—becomes essential. This study examines transit deserts within Chicago by integrating sociodemographic data and public transit usage patterns. Through linear regression and clustering methods, key population characteristics influencing passengers’ reliance on public transit across community areas are identified. Additionally, the analysis of Divvy bike usage data highlights disparities in bike station distribution, with most stations concentrated in central Chicago. This concentration limits transportation accessibility for outer areas, which may have latent demand for increased transit options. Our findings suggest potential high-demand areas lacking adequate service, supporting the case for a strategic redistribution of transit resources. The methodology and insights of this study extend beyond Chicago, offering a framework for identifying transit deserts in other urban centers to enhance equitable transit access and improve urban mobility infrastructure.
ISSN:30801761
27910210
DOI:10.54097/zwm6vs34