Arizonans are driving fewer miles these days, and technology and ride-sharing programs are making it easier to get around without relying on a car. A report released Tuesday by the Arizona Public Interest Research Group Education Fund said Arizonans have reduced their driving by more than 9 percent per person since 2006. PIRG’s Serena Unrein said smartphone apps are making it more attractive to take public transportation.
“There are smartphone-based tools that enable riders to find the best way to get to their destination, help check on the arrival of their bus or light rail train and are really helping people to drive less and use public transit more,” Unrein said.
She said the reduction in driving by Arizonans is due mostly to the high cost of driving and parking, combined with the increased availability of options like public transit, bike-sharing and car-sharing.