Episode 8: Thinking About Collective Mobility

Kari Watkins talks about her research into the role of technology in the evolving transit experience, how Atlanta has changed in the 7 years she’s lived there and the difference between teaching undergrads and grad students about transportation. She considers “dangerous futures ahead” – such as zero-passenger vehicles – and the “best future” of high capacity transit on dedicated right of way, fed by robust bike and sidewalk networks and TNCs for low density areas, all supported by timely information and payment – mobility as a service.

What does it take to get there? Transit agencies working with cities and DOTs. Incentives. Focus on high capacity networks and innovation. “When we look to a future of AVs and other technologies, it’s all the more critical to think about how we can do this efficiently and sustainably. It’s important that we get it right and soon.”