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The case for buses: interdisciplinary ethical arguments in support of strong public transit

Author

Listed:
  • Laura M. Hartman

    (Roanoke College)

  • Kathleen M. Wooley

    (Roanoke College)

  • Ryan C. Tucker

    (Roanoke College)

Abstract

We argue that municipalities of all sizes should prioritize transit, particularly buses, as a moral and practical consideration. Buses represent a mode of transit that is significantly better than private automobiles: better for the environment, more accessible to a broad range of people, healthier, and more conducive to the creation of safe, humane communities. Writing from Roanoke, VA, USA, we know that small and medium-sized American cities such as ours tend to underfund their transit systems, but a good bus system could be the centerpiece of a transportation strategy that generates health, clean air, and upward mobility for all. In this essay we establish the practical and moral reasons why cities should invest in public transit: it is not only financially smart but morally imperative to do so. We also examine cultural reasons why public transit tends to be underfunded in the US. Well-funded public transportation systems—which, in most cases, should feature a robust and well-funded bus system—have the potential to act as a key ingredient in healthy, prosperous, and just communities. Whether bus systems live up to this potential is a question that lies in the hands of advocates and decision-makers.

Suggested Citation

  • Laura M. Hartman & Kathleen M. Wooley & Ryan C. Tucker, 2024. "The case for buses: interdisciplinary ethical arguments in support of strong public transit," Journal of Environmental Studies and Sciences, Springer;Association of Environmental Studies and Sciences, vol. 14(1), pages 180-192, March.
  • Handle: RePEc:spr:jenvss:v:14:y:2024:i:1:d:10.1007_s13412-023-00874-1
    DOI: 10.1007/s13412-023-00874-1
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