An analysis of journey to work characteristics in Florida using Census 2000 public use microdata sample data files

This thesis presents an overall picture of demographic and socio-economic characteristics as well as journey to work travel behavior characteristics in Florida. In addition, detailed comparisons of journey to work private vehicle occupancy distribution, travel time distribution, mode choice and departure time distribution by household and individual characteristics are also provided based on three data files: American Community Survey Public Use Microdata Samples data file, Summary File 3 Public Use Microdata Samples 1% and Public Use Microdata Samples 5% data files. Utilizing the three data files, this thesis not only investigates current commuting patterns but also provides more reliable information on current journey to work characteristics and helps to gain knowledge that is useful to identify problems and provide creative solutions on related transportation issues in the state of Florida.\nIn analyzing the data, several socio-economic and journey to work travel behavior characteristics were identified. Interesting findings include the lower utilization of transit, the lower private vehicle occupancies for individuals in Florida, and different journey to work departure time distribution by gender, by young people and by senior citizens from other adult categories. The data analysis shows that the three data files reflect acknowledged demographic trends and capture known changes such as aging of population, smaller household size, and increasing car ownership. The comparison analysis shows that in most cases, ACS PUMS data files approximate SF3 PUMS 1% and 5% data files very well.\nThe detailed comparison of the three data files regarding journey to work travel behavior characteristics in Florida is important to decision makers who will make informed choices when evaluating alternative transportation programs and related policy issues. The knowledge of reliability of data regarding journey to work travel behavior will also help transportation professionals for travel demand modeling, transportation and land use planning and related studies.