What are the most effective strategies for improving multimodal network connectivity?

1 Identify gaps and barriers

The first step in improving multimodal network connectivity is to identify the gaps and barriers that prevent seamless and safe transitions between modes. These can include physical obstacles, such as highways, railways, waterways, or steep slopes, that separate or isolate different areas or modes. They can also include infrastructure deficiencies, such as missing sidewalks, bike lanes, crosswalks, ramps, or signals, that make walking or cycling difficult or dangerous. Additionally, they can include operational issues, such as infrequent, unreliable, or uncoordinated transit services, that discourage or delay transfers. By mapping and analyzing these gaps and barriers, planners can prioritize the most critical and feasible interventions to address them.

2 Enhance network integration

The second step in improving multimodal network connectivity is to enhance the integration of the different modes within the network. This means designing and implementing infrastructure and services that facilitate and encourage multimodal trips. For example, this can involve creating transit hubs or stations that offer convenient and comfortable access to multiple transit modes, such as buses, trains, light rail, or bike share. It can also involve improving the connectivity and quality of the active transportation network, such as adding or widening sidewalks, bike lanes, trails, or greenways, that link to transit stops or destinations. Furthermore, it can involve introducing or expanding demand-responsive or flexible transit services, such as microtransit, ride-hailing, or car share, that complement or supplement the fixed-route transit network.

3 Apply user-centric design

The third step in improving multimodal network connectivity is to apply user-centric design principles and practices to the network. This means understanding and addressing the needs, preferences, and behaviors of the current and potential users of the network. For example, this can involve conducting surveys, interviews, focus groups, or observations to gather feedback and insights from users. It can also involve using data and analytics to monitor and evaluate the performance and usage of the network. Moreover, it can involve engaging and involving users in the planning and decision-making process through participatory methods, such as workshops, charrettes, or co-design sessions.

4 Promote network awareness

The fourth step in improving multimodal network connectivity is to promote the awareness and visibility of the network among the users and the public. This means providing clear and consistent information and communication about the network and its benefits. For example, this can involve developing and disseminating maps, signs, brochures, or apps that show the available modes, routes, and connections within the network. It can also involve launching and maintaining campaigns, events, or incentives that highlight and celebrate the network and its achievements. Furthermore, it can involve fostering and supporting partnerships, collaborations, or coalitions among the stakeholders, such as public agencies, private operators, community groups, or advocates, that contribute to the network.

5 Adopt network-oriented policies

The fifth step in improving multimodal network connectivity is to adopt policies and regulations that support and advance the network and its goals. This means aligning and harmonizing the policies and regulations that affect the network and its modes at different levels and sectors. For example, this can involve revising and updating the land use and zoning policies and regulations that influence the location, density, and mix of development and activity along the network. It can also involve establishing and enforcing the transportation and environmental policies and regulations that impact the funding, pricing, and management of the network and its modes. Additionally, it can involve creating and implementing the institutional and organizational policies and regulations that enable the coordination, cooperation, and integration of the network and its modes.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?