Iowa State University selects Cerro Gordo County for transportation study

AMES, IOWA – Iowa State University (ISU) and ISU Extension and Outreach recently sent surveys to a random sample of households in Cerro Gordo County. The surveys are part of a study on how transportation impacts residents’ abilities to access essential services in Cerro Gordo County.

Past studies indicate that transportation issues can significantly impact access to healthcare, childcare, fresh and nutritious food, education, and other essential services. Through ISU’s mission to use research and outreach to improve the quality of life of Iowans, this study aims to identify transportation-related problems so that solutions can be generated to better serve the community.

For the first phase of the study, surveys were sent to randomly-selected households in late June. ISU asks that responses be sent back by July 22. While participation is voluntary, ISU asks that each sampled household complete only one survey. Each sampled household that submits a completed survey will be automatically entered into a raffle to win a free gift card.

“Responses from the Cerro Gordo County community are critical for this study,” says Dr. Carlton Basmajian, Associate Professor of Community and Regional Planning at ISU. “The information residents provide will help us assess the existing situation.”

Cass, O’Brien, and Wapello Counties were also selected for ISU’s transportation study.

Once the survey phase is complete, there will be opportunities for some survey respondents to voluntarily participate in brief in-person interviews. This process will lead to deeper information on how transportation impacts access to essential services. Each interview participant will receive a monetary gift as a token of appreciation. For those interested, more information will be provided on the survey.