MassDOT Transportation Survey Report Released
In the summer of 2024, Way Finders partnered with MassINC Polling Group (MPG) and the Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) to study the impact of transportation on low-income households in the region. Over 1,600 Way Finders clients participated in the survey along with more than 600 additional residents of Hampden and Hampshire counties.
Key findings from the report
Stuck at home
Of those who must travel for healthcare or childcare, 36% report difficulties getting there.
40% struggle to run errands like grocery shopping.
Lost opportunities
31% of Way Finders clients have had to skip medical care because of transportation difficulties.
25% have been stranded by lack of transportation services.
Financial burdens
80% of Way Finders clients say that transportation costs are a burden on their budgets – much higher than found in other low income households.
Lengthy commutes
56% of workers who rely on PVTA have commute times between 30 and 60+ minutes.
We’re grateful to everyone who has engaged in this work
These findings will be part of a long-term effort to educate policymakers and local stakeholders about how they can link housing and transportation to build not only affordable housing but thriving communities.
In their own words:
