The State of Rural Transport Services Organized on the Basis of the Collaboration of Various Bodies in Rural Mountain Village Regions : Case Study of Shizukuishi Town in Iwate Prefecture

Abstract

Due to the rise in motorization in recent years, the abolishment of unprofitable bus routes is on the increase. From the point of view of accessibility for physically impaired users, there is a demand for constructing regional public transport governance through the collaboration of a self-governing municipal government well-versed in the region, and various other bodies composed of regional inhabitants. In the bus planning stages, it is important to draw up a concept of the bus that sufficiently reflects the opinions of local residents through the cooperation of academic specialists. If in running the bus, the self-governmental administration shares the role between NPO foundations and the contractor, a service that is highly efficient and convenient can be provided. The administration should cover any losses connected with running costs and assist management with all related organizations. It is preferable that the contractor carries out the running of the bus services. This means running an efficient service based on the contractor's current resources. NPO foundations that understand the requirements of the users and can operate the service while implementing improvements are desirable as the core of management; however, it is necessary to undertake management while sharing information between municipalities, contractors and academics.