The New York Times reported on a new study that reveals that commuting time is the single most important indicator in whether or not low-income families are able to escape poverty. This relationship between social and economic mobility and transportation is stronger than other factors like crime, elementary school test scores, or the percentage of two-parent families within that community, according to the article.
In addition, there is new evidence to suggest that reliable public transit systems are good for small businesses and economic development in low-income communities. In this study, counties with transit systems have lower turnover rates, helping small businesses retain employees, thus keeping recruiting and hiring costs low.
All of this evidence supports AC Transit’s current BRT project (Bus Rapid Transit), that will provide a rapid bus system from Lake Merritt to the San Leandro BART station, traveling down International Boulevard. Tell us about your favorite business along International on Facebook or Twitter.
