Browsing by Author "Adler, Thomas"

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    The paths from walk preference to walk behavior: Applying latent factors in structural equation modeling
    (Journal of Transport and Land Use, 2012) Coogan, Matthew; Adler, Thomas; Karash, Karla
    A structural regression model has been developed to explore the relationship among key factors in the explanation of utilitarian walking. The model examines the relationship between and among unobserved, or “latent,” factors that reflect (1) the values and preferences operant at the time of residential selection; (2) the urban form of the neighborhood; (3) the urban form of the residence; (4) the level of auto dependency; and (5) the extent to which the neighborhood is found satisfactory by the participant and those whose opinions he/she respects. The model allows the detailed examination of the paths from initial inclination toward a neighborhood with walkable destinations, through a series of mediating unobserved factors, each of which might either impede or facilitate the adoption of utilitarian walking. Analysis of the model results shows that values and preferences held at the time of residential selection are directly associated with the amount of utilitarian walking undertaken and indirectly associated through their influence on the choice of the built environment and the extent of auto orientation. The model is designed to facilitate the observation of the manner in which the various factors interact.
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    Rideshare mode potential in non-metropolitan areas of the northeastern United States
    (Journal of Transport and Land Use, 2016) Lee, Brian H.Y.; Aultman-Hall, Lisa; Coogan, Matthew; Adler, Thomas
    This study focuses on work commuters who currently rideshare, are potential rideshare commuters, or indicated a willingness to use rideshare services. Discrete choice models were developed with survey data of residents in the northeastern United States. Built-environment variables based on home and workplace locations were examined. While the socio-demographic characteristics of rideshare commuters and potential rideshare commuters were similar, characteristics of those indicating a willingness to use rideshare services were dissimilar, specifically women and younger individuals were uninterested in these programs. Those who live in denser areas were more likely to rideshare now, but less likely to indicate rideshare as their alternative to driving alone. Having a rural workplace corresponded to more ridesharing and being willing to use rideshare services, but less likely to indicate rideshare in place of driving alone. Many attitudinal variables were examined in the models; but interestingly most were not useful in explaining potential ridesharers or potential rideshare program participants. This analysis indicates that potential rideshare commuters may be demographically similar to existing rideshare commuters but live and work in more rural areas. Those who would participate in rideshare programs are a different set and should be further defined and targeted separately.