FACTORS THAT INFLUENCE LOCAL SUPPORT FOR PUBLIC TRANSIT EXPENDITURES. ABRIDGMENT

Survey data collected in Ann Arbor, Michigan, are used to assess the importance of various types of motivation to support a property-tax millage earmarked for public transit. A key finding is that user benefits are relatively less important than nonuser benefits in garnering local support. Concern over fuel depletion and overuse of automobiles, stimulation of business within the city, ability to use the service should one wish to, and a perception that the service offered is of high quality are major factors in transit support. (Author)