Despite carpool initiatives, U.S. Census Bureau data show carpooling has decreased in Maricopa County over two American Community Survey five-year estimates. Those carpooling to work decreased more than 2 percent in the 2010 to 2014 survey from the previous five-year survey.
Those who commute to work alone increased slightly. Corinne Holliday with Valley Metro explained that they have multiple programs going to increase the use of alternative modes of transportation.
“Various factors, of course, can affect the use of alternative modes including gas prices. The state of the economy is a big one. Right now gas prices are relatively low compared to what they have been, and the economy is on an upswing,” Holliday said.
Carpool frequency has remained relatively steady over the past couple years as an alternative mode of transportation, according to Valley Metro surveys and statistics.