Opinion: Testing the impact of geographic mobility on economic mobility

Of all the complex questions that guide community planning, policies, and action, sometimes the most effective is simply: Why wait? That’s why we are taking action to test how removing transportation barriers can impact individuals’ financial health and well-being.

Ultimately, mobility is an equity issue that is more than just moving people from point A to point B. In short, geographic mobility can be linked to economic mobility and in a society where car ownership is typically essential for basic mobility, those without a vehicle are generally excluded from having the same opportunities as those who do own a car — and cars are costly. Numerous studies, including from Harvard and the Brookings Institute, have concluded affordable commuting options and commuting time are key factors impacting upward mobility for the working poor.