Date of Graduation

12-2025

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science in Civil Engineering (MSCE)

Degree Level

Graduate

Department

Civil Engineering

Advisor/Mentor

Mitra, Suman

Committee Member

Sasidharan, Lekshmi

Second Committee Member

Hernandez, Sarah

Keywords

Car ownership; Fewer Trips; Generalized Structural Equation Modeling; Mobility; Unmet Travel Needs

Abstract

Persistent disparities in transportation access continue to hinder mobility for disadvantaged populations across the United States, yet the national extent of unmet travel needs remains understudied. Understanding the factors behind this unmet travel need, along with identifying the characteristics of individuals who forgo planned trips, is crucial for informing policies aimed at improving their mobility. A review of the literature suggests that studies on the unmet travel needs of the general population have not been explored at the national level, although many relevant studies have focused on older adults. This study addresses this research gap by analyzing data from the 2022 NHTS using descriptive statistics and generalized structural equation modeling (GSEM) that controls for car ownership and urban/rural residence. Our analysis examines the total effect of various socio-demographic factors on the phenomenon of taking fewer trips for any reason, and specifically due to transportation-related reasons, as well as the indirect effects of these factors through household car ownership and urban/rural residence. The model results highlight that, in addition to females, older adults, African Americans, and unemployed individuals, individuals from lower-income households, those with fewer household vehicles, and adults living with children are more likely to take fewer trips. The findings of this study provide insights to guide policies aimed at mitigating unmet travel needs and promoting mobility opportunities.

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Available for download on Sunday, February 13, 2028

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