UTC 2022 Funding - Cycle 2 Research Projects

Project Number: CY2-OU-13
Project Title: Impact of Climate and Weather Variables on Emerging Micromoblity options (Bikeshare and E-Scooter) in the South-Central United States
Performing Institution: University of Oklahoma
Principal Investigator: Renee A. McPherson and Hananeh Omidi
Proposed Start and End Date: 10/01/2024 to 09/30/2025
Project Description: As transportation infrastructure evolves, bikeshare programs, e-bikes, and e-scooters have become vital components. These systems require substantial infrastructure, including docking stations, pavements, sensors, and other elements. Cities invest in this infrastructure with the expectation of significant returns, such as climate mitigation through reduced pollution like reduced surface ozone, decreased traffic congestion, and improved health outcomes for riders. Therefore, increasing the usage of these transportation modes is crucial for cities. However, future climate conditions, particularly hotter temperatures and more intense rainfall, may impact ridership patterns. The aim of this pilot study is to examine how extreme temperatures and precipitation affect bikeshare system usage, including travel time and ridership, and then to use the relationships built to project how these extremes is expected to affect future ridership. The study will focus on cities within the Southern Plains Transportation Center (SPTC) region. The results will provide community and city planners with essential insights into the challenges and opportunities for enhancing or modifying infrastructure to support these emerging transportation modes in the face of extreme weather events.
Click here to learn more