Increase percentage of residents using alternative modes of transportation to/from work.

As a leader in sustainability, the City continues to expand opportunities for the public to use alternative modes of transportation by refining its public transit service, growing its bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure, and identifying new mobility options. Mobile source emissions from automobiles remain one of the largest contributors of greenhouse gas emissions in the United States. Providing residents with alternatives to the single-occupant automobile ultimately reduces these emissions and improves public health.

Data from the most recent U.S. Census estimates that 21.4% of Tallahassee residents use alternative transportation, commuting using others means of transport than a car, to get to and from work. This is one of several metrics that can help determine how many people in Tallahassee use alternative modes of travel. The City maintains a network of over 600 miles of sidewalks, 100 miles of on-street bicycle lanes, and 25 miles of multi-use trails. The City’s protected bike lanes alone provided for approximately 5,000 cyclist trips in 2019. Micro mobility options—such as e-scooters—have proven to be useful alternative transportation options as well. In July 2021, StarMetro improved the way riders can purchase tickets. Riders can purchase Smart Passes, a plastic, reloadable smart card good for 7-day and 31-day passes . Smart Passes can be reloaded online or at the new ticket vending machine in C.K. Steele Plaza. This upgrade makes bus travel simpler for all riders.

The City will continue to identify ways to further promote alternative transportation. Continued public engagement and routine data collection will help the City better understand local commuter behaviors and identify the barriers to access that many residents face. Analysis of these data will allow for the development of strategies that shape the City’s future alternative transportation projects and initiatives. A collaborative multi-department effort will be necessary to measure progress, identify best practices and continue the development of the City’s comprehensive approach to fostering alternative transportation.

Housing & Community Resilience. Last Updated: December 2022.