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Did Free Wi-Fi Make a Difference to Amtrak’s Capitol Corridor Service? An Evaluation of the Impact on Riders and Ridership

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  • Mokhtarian, Patricia L.
  • Neufeld, Amanda J.
  • Dong, Zhi
  • Circella, Giovanni

Abstract

In November 2011, Amtrak launched free Wi-Fi service on all trains traveling the California Capitol Corridor route. Surveys of passengers found that wi-fi access has a positive impact on the expected travel frequency, especially for new riders. A discrete choice model was used to predict the choice to use the free wi-fi service; results identified demographic characteristics and other factors that indicate which passengers are more likely to use the service. Prior to installation, the Capitol Corridor Joint Powers Authority indicated that a 1-2% increase in ridership would justify the free wi-fi. That result appears to have been met and most likely exceeded.

Suggested Citation

  • Mokhtarian, Patricia L. & Neufeld, Amanda J. & Dong, Zhi & Circella, Giovanni, 2013. "Did Free Wi-Fi Make a Difference to Amtrak’s Capitol Corridor Service? An Evaluation of the Impact on Riders and Ridership," Institute of Transportation Studies, Working Paper Series qt8vz6m3tc, Institute of Transportation Studies, UC Davis.
    • Handle: RePEc:cdl:itsdav:qt8vz6m3tc
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Zhi Dong & Patricia Mokhtarian & Giovanni Circella & James Allison, 2015. "The estimation of changes in rail ridership through an onboard survey: did free Wi-Fi make a difference to Amtrak’s Capitol Corridor service?," Transportation, Springer, vol. 42(1), pages 123-142, January.
    2. Pike, Susan & Kothawala, Alimurtaza, 2019. "Informing a Pilot: Preparing the Pre-launch Survey for the Davis Amtrak Station Access Program," Institute of Transportation Studies, Working Paper Series qt04p9j3m2, Institute of Transportation Studies, UC Davis.

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