An exploratory study of Mobility Hub implementation

Mobility Hubs (MH) have been developed, as multimodal interchanges focussed on public transport, active travel modes, and shared mobility, with the aim of encouraging more sustainable forms of travel. There is emergent evidence of MH development and implementation across an increasing number of international cities often with different interpretations of the concept. 

This paper aims to analyse the decision-making factors behind MH implementation. 11 semi-structured interviews were conducted with transport professionals involved with MH implementation throughout the United States, mainland Europe and the United Kingdom.  

The interviews revealed common elements in the decision-making process categorised in four headings, namely: Purpose, Process, Place and Performance referred to as the 4 Ps.  MH objectives centred around modal shift, particularly away from single-occupancy and private vehicles, to other forms of mobility, often determined through extensive public and stakeholder consultation. Recurring issues of public transport linkage, improved access to micro-mobility including both electric and active modes, and shared transport were prevalent. MHs can also provide an addition to community space, particularly in the US. Focus in Europe is on the provision of different transportation modes.  

Formal evaluation of both process and results due to their relatively recent implementation was limited and still emerging. Evaluation planning is therefore an area of research that needs further work.