Motorized three-wheelers and their potential for just mobility in Caribbean urban areas

This paper investigates the role of motorized three-wheelers (MTW) in urban mobility within popular transport, a demand -responsive and unscheduled mode of transportation provided by self -organized small operators frequently operating in grey areas of regulation. Although popular transport is the primary mobility option for millions worldwide, knowledge about its users, operation, and environmental and social impacts remains scarce. This paper sheds light on some of the features and impacts of popular MTW, focusing on two case studies in the Caribbean with different scales and urban trajectories: Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica, and Soledad in Colombia. We explored the relationship between MTW and fragmentation-(in)accessibility-exclusion in these cities, drawing on a framework connecting these concepts in the Latin American and Caribbean context. Using primary data from qualitative and quantitative methods, the paper examines the distribution of inhibitors or enablers of accessibility within the context of unequal, splintered, and fragmented transport and communication infrastructures. Additionally, the environmental impact of MTW in terms of CO2 and PM2.5 emissions is assessed using field data from low-cost sensors. The paper argues that planning for just urban mobility necessitates considering the ecological consequences of various transportation modes and their social consequences and potential for participation and inclusion. The applied methodology introduces low-cost, replicable, and scalable data production and analysis techniques, contributing to future research on sustainable and just mobility in resource -limited urban areas. Policy Significance Statement This study explores the role of motorized three-wheelers (MTW) in urban mobility, addressing previously unmet needs in Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica, and Soledad in Colombia. MTWs contribute to increased accessibility, particularly for livelihoods, recreation, and care activities, and adapt to changing geographies of transport supply. However, their impact on education accessibility is less clear. The flexibility of MTWs, combined with their ability to provide transport at different scales of operation and spatial coverage, allows them to bridge gaps in transport networks. The study also highlights the importance of addressing safety concerns, affordability, and environmental impacts of MTWs to ensure sustainable and just urban mobility for all.