Public transport is a public service, therefore, it needs public investment and public oversight. All public transport needs to be well funded and financed and well managed, with informal public transport being considered as part of this public service. For public transport to be a public service, it needs to reach all (coverage) and be affordable. Currently, financing is mostly focused on big infrastructure projects.
This misses the bulk of public transport that people typically use—buses and informal public transport—as well as the walking and cycling environment to reach those big infrastructure projects. In many cities, public transport operations are only funded through fare revenue, resulting in unaffordable fares for some, big gaps in times or places that services run, and low-quality service. Public funding and more financing for public transport are essential to ensure good coverage and affordability for the user.
Public transit must provide good service for all. Good service is the bedrock for a resilient and equitable public transport system, and it also requires adequate investment. Good service for all begins with frequency, but also means having a diversity of options within the public transport system supported by the first and last mile connectivity options, such as walking and cycling. This also means that services must be planned to meet a diversity of trip purposes, including caregiving trips as well as commuting. Achieving this requires establishing robust funding and management of all parts of public transport systems.
Public transport should be built on public participation and community-building. Public transport is not just a technical enterprise, but also a political and social one. Public participation can take many forms, and it can change depending on a place’s needs and capacity. Such participation can include activities like surveys, interviews, citizen councils, referendums, and public meetings that help residents voice their thoughts on new interventions.
It can also include a responsive social media or virtual presence that engages with the public and provides transparent updates and answers questions. Public input on transport planning is essential for several reasons because it ensures that projects consider the needs, desires, and concerns of residents, builds trust and public support, and builds social capital.