A pilot program that provides Los Angeles residents with money to cover transportation costs has resulted in positive early results, according to a study by the UCLA Lewis Center for Regional Policy Study.
Mobility wallets are part of a broader effort to build universal basic mobility. Mobility Wallet provided funding for participating Angelenos for $1,000 per month, public transport, ride hale, car rentals and bike sharing systems.
Based on interviews with 31 participants, researchers at the Lewis Center found that transport subsidies have widespread benefits. “The most common outcome was a reduction in material difficulties and a general improvement in quality of life. With one of the budgets, participants said that they could redirect their money to everyday expenses like food, school supplies, and bills.” People reported feeling less stressed, more independent and could take their families out.
The programme applies to a wide range of transportation options, making it more flexible than traditional transportation subsidies. Many participants in the Mobility Wallet Program used it as a supplement to Metro’s wider available low-income fares. “For example, some people used their wallets to pay for rides or electronic sumoters during long transport waits, or to cover their first/last mile access.”
The city is expanding its program to 2,000 participants in the next phase.
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