As Transit Unplugged closes out 2025, host Paul Comfort sits down with David Zipper for a wide-ranging, end-of-year conversation on where public transportation has been — and where it’s headed next. A senior fellow at the MIT Mobility Initiative and one of the most influential transportation voices writing today, David brings a rare perspective shaped by public service, venture capital, academia, and journalism. He has authored more than 200 articles in outlets including Bloomberg, Vox, and The Atlantic, examining how transportation, technology, and society intersect. In this episode, Paul and David reflect on the defining trends of 2025 and look ahead to the challenges and opportunities transit agencies will face in 2026. You’ll hear: Why robotaxis at scale may create new congestion and operational challenges for citiesThe promise — and pitfalls — of the emerging “abundance” framework in transportation policyHow ridership patterns have stabilized into a new post-pandemic normalWhy mission creep threatens transit agencies from both the political left and rightWhat New York City’s congestion pricing success could mean for other U.S. citiesA candid assessment of electric bus deployment and why flexibility mattersHow AI-powered bus lane enforcement is already improving service reliabilityWhy autonomous rail may be one of the most important sleeper trends in transitThe evolving role of micromobility and e-bike share in expanding transit accessWhy transit’s future depends on staying focused on fast, frequent, reliable service This is a thoughtful, occasionally provocative discussion that challenges conventional wisdom while staying grounded in real-world operations — and a fitting way to close out a transformative year for the transit industry. About the Guest: David Zipper is a senior fellow at the MIT Mobility Initiative and a contributing writer for Bloomberg CityLab and Vox. He previously served in city government in New York and Washington, DC, and has advised organizations across the public and private sectors on transportation strategy and regulation. He also co-hosts the podcast Look Both Ways, where he explores the future of urban mobility. Learn more at davidzipper.com. _________________________________________________________Host + Producer: Paul Comfort Executive Producer: Julie Gates Producer: Chris O'Keeffe Editor: Patrick Emile Associate Producer: Cyndi Raskin Brand design: Tina Olagundoye Social Media: Tatyana Mechkarova If you have a question or comment, email us at [email protected]. Sign up for the Transit Unplugged Newsletter: https://transitunplugged.com/subscrib... Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this program are those of the guests, and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of Modaxo Inc., its affiliates or subsidiaries, or any entities they represent (“Modaxo”). This production belongs to Modaxo, and may contain information that may be subject to trademark, copyright, or other intellectual property rights and restrictions....

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