UBM Pilots in the United States
Universal Basic Mobility (UBM) pilots have been rapidly proliferating across the United States, offering new ways to make transportation more affordable and accessible. While this website highlights four innovative pilot programs in California—each evaluated by UC Davis researchers—this section expands the view to include a national survey of UBM initiatives.
The table below summarizes details of programs, including name, location, and timing (When); population (Who) and number of recipients (How many); type and amount of free or discounted transportation service (What and How much); and program funding source.
UBM Programs Summary
(Data from Rodier et al 2024)
Name | When? | Who? | How many? | What? | How much? | How funded? |
| Parking District (Portland, OR) | Since 2017 | Residents and employees in central city parking districts | 6,500 | Funds allocated by mode | ~$66/month (max.) | Parking permit fees and negotiated lower pricing |
| New Mover (Portland, OR) | Since 2022 | Residents moving into new multi-unit buildings in TOD zones | No Data | Funds allocated by mode | ~$17-$26/month (more for income-qualified) | Developer fees |
| Affordable Housing (Portland, OR) | 2019-2022 | Affordable housing residents | 1,000 | Funds flexible across modes and funds allocated by mode | ~$31/month | Local agency |
| Affordable Housing (Sacramento, CA) | Since 2017 | Affordable housing residents who cannot drive | 150 (annual) | Funds flexible across modes | $100/month | State air quality and local agency |
| Universal Basic Mobility (Pittsburgh, PA) | Since 2022 | Income-qualified residents | 50 | Funds allocated by mode | $262/month | Foundation and shared mobility provider |
California pilots with UC Davis research evaluation: | ||||||
Name | When? | Who? | How many? | What? | How much? | How funded? |
| Universal Basic Mobility (Oakland, CA) | 2021-2022 | Employees and residents in East Oakland near new BART | 500 | Funds flexible across modes | $300 total for 3 months (anticipated use) | Local agency |
| Mobility Wallet (Los Angeles, CA) | 2023-2024 (12 months) | Income-qualified residents in South L.A. | 2,000 | Funds flexible across modes | $150/month | State air quality and local agency |
| Mobility Incentives (Stockton, CA) | 2023-2024 (18 months) | Income-qualified residents in South Stockton | 400 | Funds flexible across modes | $100/month | State air quality and local agency |
| Spin/Dream Center (Bakersfield, CA) | 2022 (12 months) | At-risk youth (18-25 years old) identified by social services center | 125 | Spin e-scooters and e-bikes | 5 rides up to 30 minutes each per day | Spin |