Transportation

Safe and affordable movement in communities that are accessible

Transportation is an essential part of the community infrastructure that helps people gain access to goods, services, and social contacts that support their daily activities and quality of life. Transportation is a symbol of personal freedom and has become essential to the independence and mobility of most individuals. Learn more.

The majority of older Texans are still able to drive safely. However, some experience age-related declines in performance that may hinder the ability to safely operate a vehicle. Learn more.

Older adults are the fastest-growing segment of the U.S. driving population, both in total number of drivers and total number of miles driven per year.

Transportation is a critical issue for non-drivers in rural areas. In the year 2000, almost three quarters of seniors over 65 nationwide lived in suburban or rural areas where there are few alternatives to driving. Learn more.

Several federal transportation programs provide funding to create systems and build infrastructures to meet the transit needs of non-drivers. Learn more.

Lack of transportation is a primary barrier for consumers trying to access needed services. Learn more.

According to one study, one-fourth of Americans 75 and older do not drive. Thus, older adults are among the population at risk of becoming "transportation disadvantaged," those who do not own, or cannot operate a vehicle and must rely on alternative means of transportation. House Bill 1621 (77th Legislature) ensures that at least one board member of metropolitan rapid transit authorities, regional transportation authorities, and county mass transit authorities is designated to represent the interests of the transportation disadvantaged. The transportation disadvantaged also includes people with disabilities and those with low income.

Resources

Transportation Issue
Transportation facts, trends and issues

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Updated: November 2, 2007