Rural providers face the inherent challenge of covering large service areas with low population densities, long distances to meet basic needs, and isolated pockets of poverty. As suburban microtransit has proliferated across the U.S. and been positively received by riders, rural providers are considering whether microtransit is a solution that could work for them. TRB hosted a webinar on Monday, June 15, 2026 from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM Eastern that shared the findings from TCRP Synthesis 178: Microtransit Solutions in Rural Communities: On-Demand Alternatives to Dial-a-Ride Services and Unproductive Coverage Routes. Presenters shared an overview of the state-of-the-practice in rural microtransit, in-depth case studies, and overarching lessons and themes seen across several case studies.
This webinar was sponsored by TRB’s Transit Cooperative Research Program.
The slides are available.
Webinar agenda and presenters
The first 40 minutes of the webinar were for presentations and the final 20 minutes were reserved for audience questions.
Learning Objectives
At the end of this webinar, participants can:
American Institute of Certified Planners Certification Maintenance Credits
This webinar was approved by the American Planning Association (APA) for 1 Certification Maintenance (CM) Credit. CM credits provide continuing education opportunities for AICP Certified Planners to continue their professional skills and knowledge. To receive CM credits, Certified Planners should visit the TRB event webpage on American Planning Association and register their participation. If you have problems reporting your CM credits or have general questions about the CM program, please contact the APA.
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