A recent study by the American Public Transportation Association claims those who frequently use ridesharing programs such as Uber and Lyft are often healthier and more apt to choose other environmentally friendly transportation options. Findings conclude frequent Uber and Lyft users are generally more likely to use public transportation, such as the train or bus, on a regular basis, and are more likely to walk to nearby destinations. “As the study shows, people who use public transit and these shared services are making a lifestyle change that results in more walking, less driving and greater household savings because of overall lower transportation costs,” said Valarie J. McCall, chair, APTA. Rideshare fans are also less likely to belong to a car-owning household and often belong to other transportation-sharing communities as well, such as bikesharing and carsharing, as is available through Zipcar. In fact, frequent rideshare users overall own almost half a car less per household than transit-only users, with many admitting postponing a car purchase or selling their current car with no intention of replacing it. The study suggests as Lyft, Uber and other similar services grow, urban dwellers will see a shift to more walkable, livable and sustainable cities, as they become less polluted, congested and auto-dependent. The study also suggests an increase in good health is another side effect of the ridesharing economy. Beyond reduced pollution, two-thirds of respondents agree overall activity levels have risen since starting to use a ridesharing service, particularly thanks to the more common choice to walk to nearby destinations. In addition, the demand for ridesharing spikes 10 p.m.–4 a.m. on weekends, servicing otherwise intoxicated drivers at times when public transportation may not run. “The way people get around in communities is being transformed, and public transportation is at the heart of this formal shift. Together with companies like Lyft and Uber, we are integral to creating a dynamic multimodal lifestyle,” said Michael Melaniphy, president and CEO, APTA. The study was conducted by researching the travel habits of 4,500 individuals in seven U.S. cities — Austin; Boston; Chicago; Los Angeles; San Francisco; Seattle; and Washington, D.C. Do you agree ridesharing services can bring dramatic benefits to urban areas? How often do you use services such as Uber or Lyft, either at home or while traveling? Email us and let us know. Please include your full name and location with your email.