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Whose access is enhanced? An equity prioritization framework for evaluating proposed transit route alignments in Edmonton, Canada
Journal article   Peer reviewed

Whose access is enhanced? An equity prioritization framework for evaluating proposed transit route alignments in Edmonton, Canada

Poorva Jain, Bogdan Kapatsila and Emily Grisé
Journal of transport geography, Vol.133, 104648
05/2026
DOI: 10.1016/j.jtrangeo.2026.104648

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Abstract

Despite intentions to prioritize marginalized groups in transportation infrastructure planning, existing methodologies often fail to operationalize equity analysis empirically, largely due to insufficient disaggregated travel data by gender and other identity factors, coupled with the absence of accessible tools for analysis. Hence, the main objective of this study is to assess how an equity prioritization framework, such as Gender-Based Analysis (GBA) Plus, can be integrated into capital infrastructure planning to enhance inclusivity and equity in decision-making processes. The study develops and tests a novel methodology for assessing the impact of two proposed BRT corridors on equity-deserving groups, including women, seniors, youth, Indigenous peoples, immigrants, low-income individuals, and visible minorities. The proposed methodology integrates two analytical approaches: first, a local accessibility analysis, which examines the demographic profile of residents living near proposed corridors, considering their potential access and usage based on the proximity; and second, a regional accessibility analysis, which examines accessibility changes to destinations frequented by youth, seniors, women and people with disabilities, including work, shopping, dining, recreation, education, caregiving (such as escorting minors or seniors), healthcare facilities, and personal errands. Application of the methodology to a mid-sized Canadian city, Edmonton, reveals that both proposed BRT corridors will significantly benefit equity-deserving groups residing near the stops, and empirical gains in accessibility to high-demand opportunities are presented. The approach offers a scalable model for future route or corridor-level planning studies, providing a framework for assessing equity and accessibility across diverse identity groups.
 Transport equity Equity-deserving groups GBA plus BRT Accessibility Gender disparities Mass transit

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