Transportation Equity and the Older Adult Population in Indianapolis
Data reveals that within Marion County, older residents tend to live in areas where the least amount of public transit is available. Census tracts with the greatest population of adults aged 65+ also have the greatest average distance to travel to public bus stops. Plans to expand IndyGo from 2023-2027 will likely improve transit options for some older adults in Marion County, but limited transit opportunities may persist in several areas where older adults reside. In addition, transportation inequities will likely persist in the suburban and rural areas beyond Marion County. Findings suggest a continued need to investigate the feasibility and sustainability of other transit options such as micro transit and ride hailing to accommodate our growing older adult population.
On December 8, the Polis Center hosted the State of Aging in Central Indiana Report webinar and panel discussion on "Transportation Equity and the Older Adult Population". The panelists discussed public transit accessibility for the older population in Central Indiana and answered questions from the audience.
This event was a partnership between The Polis Center, WFYI Public Media, and the Central Indiana Senior Fund, a fund of the Central Indiana Community Foundation. Dr. Matthew Dietrich and Matt Nowlin from The Polis Center presented on their research, moderated by Jill Sheridan from WFYI Public Media.
Panelists included:
- Karren Brooks, Director, Way2go Transportation, CICOA Aging & In-Home Solutions
- Jen Higgenbotham, Senior Planner II, Indianapolis Metropolitan Planning Organization
- La Keisha Jackson, Indianapolis City Councilor; Executive Director, Pathways Resource Center
- Mike Roth, Senior Director of Mobility Solutions, IndyGo