Introduction

Structural inequities in Tompkins County disproportionately affect BIPOC and other underserved communities, particularly in relation to household income. The Human Services Coalition of Tompkins County recognizes the need to address these inequities and is undertaking a transportation equity needs assessment. This research proposal outlines the objectives, methodology, and anticipated outcomes of the assessment, with a particular focus on the contributions and responsibilities of the researcher.

Objectives

The primary objective of the assessment is to gain a comprehensive understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of the transportation system in serving underserved communities in Tompkins County. The specific research questions guiding the assessment are as follows: a. What are the barriers faced by underserved communities in accessing key services, opportunities, and amenities through the transportation system? b. Why do these barriers exist?

Methodology

The needs assessment will adopt a community-based participatory research approach, ensuring that underserved residents have the opportunity to contribute to transportation research and decision-making processes. Integrated mixed methods analysis will be conducted, including survey analysis, secondary data analysis, and qualitative analysis of open-ended responses. This will involve tasks such as qualitative analysis of survey responses, additional secondary data collection/analysis, data visualizations, and other analytical processes.

Collaboration

In June and July, I will be actively assisting Claire Stoscheck from Golden Aspen Consulting in the integrated mixed methods analysis for the assessment.

Anticipated Outcomes

The results of the needs assessment will provide a comprehensive framework for developing and identifying transportation services and solutions that support and nurture the Tompkins County community. The assessment will also serve as a baseline to track progress over time on transportation equity outcomes as interventions are implemented.

Key anticipated outcomes, with my direct involvement, include:

1. Preliminary Insights and Recommendations: I will contribute to the preparation of a document highlighting initial findings and recommendations for use in a workshop.
2. Emerging Findings Workshop: I will assist in designing and facilitating an "Emerging Findings" workshop with the Evaluation and Learning Group (ELG) to collaboratively interpret results, make sense of the data, and validate emerging findings.
3. Public Report: I will actively participate in outlining and drafting a comprehensive report suitable for a public audience. This report will involve graphic design and formatting, including the incorporation of photos, graphics, pop-out boxes, white space, a linked table of contents, and other elements to enhance accessibility and readability.

Conclusion

In collaboration with Claire Stoscheck from Golden Aspen Consulting, I will be actively involved in the integrated mixed methods analysis, preliminary insights and recommendations document, workshop facilitation, and report drafting for the transportation equity needs assessment in Tompkins County. By conducting this assessment, the Human Services Coalition of Tompkins County aims to address structural inequities and foster equity and inclusivity in the community. The outcomes of the assessment will inform the development of targeted transportation services and solutions that prioritize the needs of underserved communities.