User Preferences for Trip Planner and Factors Shaping Sustainable Transport in Rural and Urban Areas

Abstract: As cities and regions increasingly face the environmental challenges posed by transportation, sustainable options—like public transit, walking, and biking—present a vital solution for reducing carbon emissions and enhancing overall mobility. Trip planners are commonly used to centralize the information about available modes to increase the usage across different modes. However, the adoption of these alternatives remains low, with many individuals still opting for private vehicles. This research delves into the factors that influence transportation choices, focusing on the impact of trip planner interfaces, and examines how preferences vary between urban and rural/suburban areas in North Carolina.

Survey findings indicate that driving (both as a driver and passenger) is the most preferred mode of transport across both urban and rural areas. Ride-hailing services are the second-most preferred option for urban dwellers, while walking is the second choice for those in rural areas. Despite the availability of these alternatives, both groups cite the inconvenience compared to driving and longer travel times as the main barriers to adopting sustainable modes, with minimal variation between urban and rural responses.

The findings also show that users place significant value on trip planner features such as multi-destination trip chaining, real-time updates, and the ability to choose different modes for each leg of their journey. These options allow for greater flexibility and customization based on user preferences. Personalization and offline functionality are also particularly important for those in areas with limited network coverage, ensuring that the trip planner remains useful and accessible in various conditions. Most importantly, our study compares preferences between urban and rural/suburban respondents, highlighting how these priorities shift depending on geographic context.

Additional insights reveal that older adults tend to prefer biking less but are willing to walk if the sidewalk infrastructure is sufficient. Moreover, many respondents are not aware of the existence and advantages of trip planners, and some older individuals expressed discomfort with using smart devices. Limitations in the coverage of trip planners for inter-city travel, along with the need for information on amenities such as gas stations, charging points, and medical facilities, were also identified as areas needing improvement. Concerns about weather conditions and the risk of infections, including the flu or COVID-19, further discourage the use of public transportation.

These findings offer valuable insights into the preferences and barriers that influence users’ transportation choices and underscore opportunities for improvement.