Bridging the Gap: Improving Transit for Low-Income Riders in the Research Triangle Region

Abstract

As the regional transit provider for the rapidly growing Raleigh-Durham-Chapel Hill area, GoTriangle plays a vital role in connecting communities across municipal boundaries. The agency operates in a complex environment shaped by suburban sprawl, car dependency, and constrained funding. Historical patterns of highway construction and car-centric infrastructure have disproportionately affected low-income communities, contributing to long-standing transportation inequities. These transit-dependent populations often face significant barriers to employment, healthcare, and education due to limited access to reliable public transit. Using the American Community Survey and General Transit Feed Specification data, Section 4 identifies areas in the Triangle region where low-income households are highly dependent on public transit and face limited access. Results show that there are large transit dependent populations in areas just outside downtown North and East Durham, South Durham, and Eastern Raleigh, in addition to peri-urban areas in East Wake. Onboard survey data from GoTriangle confirms that these areas have high proportions of low-income, carless, non-white riders with long, multi-transfer commutes. The findings underscore the need for targeted transit investments and innovative service models in underserved communities. Section 5 presents findings from a survey sent out to various transit agencies and follow-up case study research focused on strategies transit agencies use to improve access for low-income riders. Key challenges identified include limited funding, staffing shortages, and low ridership on routes serving low-income communities, often restricting service expansion in areas of greatest need. Agencies are increasingly turning to microtransit and on-demand solutions to serve suburban and low-density neighborhoods where traditional fixed-route models are less effective. Case studies emphasize the importance of sustained community engagement and partnerships with local organizations to align services with residents’ needs. Drawing from spatial analysis, survey data, and national case studies, the proposed strategies reflect a flexible approach tailored to local needs and capacity. Key recommendations include:

Expanding microtransit in underserved areas such as North/East Durham, South Durham, and Eastern Wake County, supported by regional coordination, equity metrics, and pilot funding. Deepening community engagement through a Transit Ambassador program, partnerships with trusted community organizations, and targeted outreach to marginalized populations and Transit Assistance Pass (TAP) holders. Reforming the TAP program by expanding eligibility using Area Median Income (AMI) thresholds, offering tiered fare discounts, and piloting employer-based subsidy partnerships to better serve cost-burdened riders excluded from current programs.

Together, these strategies are designed to advance mobility equity, enhance service responsiveness, and center the voices of those most reliant on public transit in the Triangle region.