Moving Millennials: The Transit Experiences of Young Adults Living in High-Rise Suburbs of Toronto

Abstract

In light of increasing traffic congestion issues and environmental concerns, initiatives aiming towards the reduction of automobile use have been key in planning for modern communities. Strategies to encourage higher use of public transit are uncommonly applied in suburban contexts and there has been a gap in qualitative research within the transportation literature. Thereby, this study complements this body of works by using a mixed methods approach to understand the transit experiences among inner-suburban young adults living in rental high-rises of Toronto. Through secondary analysis of the Transportation Tomorrow Survey (TTS) dataset and a series of semi-structured interviews, the study’s objectives are to (1) identify elements of the transit system that are working well and those that need improvement, (2) assess whether the current transit network is sufficient in meeting the needs of high-rise suburban residents, and (3) provide recommendations on how to improve transit serving high-rise suburban residents. The study area depicts 2 inner-suburban neighbourhoods, namely Don Valley Village and Crescent Town. Research findings suggest that the target population is among those most dependent on transit. Although most participants have an overall positive transit experience, they identify elements of the transit system that need improvement reflected upon measures of transit access, service, facility, cost, network, and support. In conjunction with technical enhancements, several policy recommendations are suggested, which include exploring further financing options, ensuring an equitable transit system, and improving transit service and facility. Conclusions from this study can help to inform planners and decision makers on strategies to improve public transit in the suburban context.