Workshop 6 report: Reassessing public operations

A diverse group of public transport (PT) stakeholders agree that increased quality and quantity of service is needed to meet the multiple economic, environmental, and social goals for public transport. Achieving these goals often requires changes to the existing sector. There are multiple means and opportunities to drive change, including a new regulatory framework, a transition to an integrated network, or more funding and service types. A conceptual framework illustrates how the relationships between users, government authorities, and operators should guide decision-making at the strategic, tactical, and operational levels. Any type of stakeholder can be a change agent. While change is needed, examples from multiple cities illustrate that there is significant risk in the change process. Changes need to be managed with realistic planning and adequate levels of funding. A key component is accounting for all costs, including internalizing any externalities and paying for social and environmental goals. Stakeholders need to be included in the process since their power can shift over time and to manage expectations.