Qualitative Assessment of Transit Needs: The Nebraska Case

Abstract

This paper presents the findings and outcomes of an assessment of transit needs in Nebraska. Specifically, the paper presents data from Scottsbluff/Gering, Kearney, and Norfollk, Nebraska, because data for these communities were gathered through both a survey and a focus group. The study builds upon a previous statewide transit needs assessment, but uses an alternative approach—a qualitative research design. This research design steers the study toward findings that identify personal transit needs, which would not emerge from a traditional, quantitative assessment, and outcomes that are more locally applicable. Among the findings of this study are the perceived need for more service hours and a greater flexibility for seniors' needs. Outcomes include changes in service hours and new collaborative efforts.