An Analysis of Public Transportation and Residential Segregation

Abstract

Segregation is a complex social phenomenon that occurs across various socio-spatial domains and operates on multiple levels. Past research indicates that segregated residential areas can lead to social and economic exclusion. This study aims to investigate whether bus networks address present spatial inequities or if they perpetuate the inherent segregation in our metropolitan areas. This is achieved through quantitative analysis of two geographies, ZIP Code Tabulation Areas (ZCTAS) and Transit Route Service Areas (TRSAs), in four metropolitan regions (Boston, Chicago, Dallas, Los Angeles). Indexes of dissimilarity and isolation are employed to measure and compare the degree of racial segregation in the respective geographies. Analysis shows that TRSAs indicate less segregation than ZCTAs, that is bus networks demonstrate less segregation.