Autonomous Vehicles for Small Towns: Exploring Perception, Accessibility, and Safety

As of 2021, there were 18,696 small towns in the US with a population of less than 50,000. These communities typically have a low population density, few public transport services, and limited accessibility to daily services. This can pose significant challenges for residents trying to fulfill essential travel needs and access healthcare. Autonomous vehicles (AVs) have the potential to provide a convenient and safe way to get around without requiring human drivers, making them a promising transportation solution for these small towns. AV technology can become a first-line mobility option for people who are unable to drive, such as older adults and those with disabilities, while also reducing the cost of transportation for both individuals with special needs and municipalities. The report includes our research findings on 1) how residents in small towns perceive AV, including both positive and negative aspects; 2) the impacts of ENDEAVRide—a novel “Transport + Telemedicine 2-in-1” microtransit service delivered on a self-driving van in central Texas—on older adults’ travel and quality of life; and 3) the potential safety implications of AVs in small towns. This report will help municipal leaders, transportation professionals, and researchers gain a better understanding of how AV deployment can serve small towns.