Public transportation is a lifeline for countless individuals, connecting them to workplaces, schools, essential services and social opportunities. However, the needs of women in this domain often remain underrepresented and overlooked.
According to American Public Transportation Association, women account for 56% of public transit users in urban areas. Understanding these unique requirements is crucial for creating an inclusive transportation system that serves all users effectively.
Safety is paramount for women using public transit. Over 70% of women feel unsafe on public transportation. Reports of harassment and violence on buses and trains can deter women from traveling, particularly during off-peak hours when services may be less crowded.
To address this, public transportation authorities should prioritize safety measures. These include increased surveillance, better lighting in transit stations and a visible presence of transport staff and security personnel. Additionally, systems could implement features like panic buttons and the option to allow women to alert staff discreetly if they feel threatened.
Moreover, transportation design must consider the diverse roles women play in society, including those of caregivers and commuters. Women often juggle multiple responsibilities such as child care and elder care, making direct routes, and predictable schedules and reliable transfers crucial.
Family-friendly features such as designated spaces for strollers and easy access for individuals with disabilities can enhance the comfort and convenience of public transport for women. Women need to be part of the transportation planning. Check the Ability 360 website for the design work done in the Phoenix Light Rail station by this group.
Another vital aspect is affordability. Women — particularly single mothers and low-income earners — are disproportionately affected by transportation costs. In many cities, the price of public transit can be a significant barrier to access.
Solutions in the Phoenix area include subsidized fares for low-income users, monthly passes, rides for those with disabilities and discounts for families.
However, in the West Valley, public transit is only available in cities. None of Maricopa County’s unincorporated areas have transit services, including Sun City, Sun City West, Waddell, Buckeye Valley and Anthem to name a few. As Maricopa County increases the availability of housing in unincorporated areas, women who live in those areas will again be left out of the ability to access any public transit.
In addition to safety and affordability, there is a need for flexibility in service offerings that align with women’s varied schedules and life circumstances. Many women work non-traditional hours or have irregular job schedules. More flexible services, smaller shuttles and autonomous services including on-demand transit options make accessibility and reliability a more viable choice for women with diverse employment situations.
Policymakers must prioritize investment in safe, reliable and accessible public transportation systems for all of Arizona.
Community initiatives like carpooling programs, subsidized ride-sharing services and transport vouchers can make a significant difference. Addressing transportation inequities is not just a logistical issue; it is a matter of gender equity. By improving transportation access, we can empower women to participate fully in the workforce, engage with health care services, build stronger more connected communities and provide better air quality.
In conclusion, the lack of transportation profoundly affects women’s economic opportunities, health and overall well-being. Solutions that enhance transportation access are essential for building a more equitable society where women can thrive.
Proposition 479, which was recently passed overwhelmingly by the Maricopa County voters, could help provide services to over 2 million West Valley residents who currently have no connected transit services.
Women would be especially impacted by the aspect of having transit services available. Unfortunately, our current legislators are trying to subvert the wishes of the public by filing a lawsuit to stop the half-cent sales tax renewal.
Why, you ask? Good question! You should contact your state legislators and ask them.
Editor’s note: Women’s Watch is a cooperative writing effort of the local chapters of the American Association of University Women, the League of Women Voters and the National Organization for Women. This piece was authored by Sharon Hettick. Reader reactions, pro or con, are welcomed at AzOpinions@iniusa.org.
