Title: Framework for Testing Innovative Transit Solutions: Case Study of CarLink, A Commuter Carsharing Program
Publication Information: Transportation Research Record, (2005)
Report Number: UCD-ITS-RP-05-01
Author(s): Susan Shaheen and Linda Novick
Document Date: 12/31/05
Number of Pages: 9
Price: $5
Abstract:
Transit accounts for just two percent of total travel in the U.S.
One reason for low ridership is limited access; many individuals either
live or work too far from a transit station. In developing transit
connectivity solutions, researchers often employ a range of study
instruments, such as stated-preference surveys, focus groups, and pilot
programs. To better understand response to one innovative transit
solution, the authors employed a number of research tools, including: a
longitudinal survey, field test, and pilot program. The innovation
examined was a commuter carsharing model, called CarLink, which linked
short-term rental vehicles to transit and employment centers. Over
several years, researchers explored user response to the CarLink
concept, a field operational test (CarLink I), a pilot program (CarLink
II), and a commercial operation (the pilot was turned over to Flexcar
in Summer 2002). This multi-staged approach provided an opportunity for
researchers to learn and adapt as each phase progressed. In this paper,
the authors outline the CarLink model, technology, and early lessons
learned; describe CarLink II operational understanding; provide a
synopsis of the pilot program transition; and offer recommendations for
future model development.
Keywords:
Carsharing, CarLink, User Response, Operations, Survey, Field Test, Pilot Program, Sustainability