Perceived accessibility and transport equity: Does satisfaction imply perceived sufficiency of opportunities?

Abstract

This paper demonstrates that individual satisfaction with accessibility and perceived sufficiency of opportunities represent distinct dimensions of perceived accessibility in the normative evaluation of spatial accessibility inequalities. Satisfaction assessments are outcome-based and inform evaluations of the distributive justice of accessibility by capturing differences in current experiences of reaching desired activities. Perceptions of having sufficient options are opportunity-based assessments and relate to procedural justice by reflecting judgments on the fairness of mechanisms shaping accessibility distributions. In a survey conducted in the Netherlands, most individuals report both high satisfaction and perceived sufficiency. However, notable discrepancies emerge, particularly in rural areas, where many express satisfaction with accessibility but also concerns about the sufficiency of opportunities. For policy practice, it is important to acknowledge that goals related to individual benefits from accessibility and perceived sufficiency of opportunities are not inherently linked and potentially conflicting within broader social and environmental policy agendas. Recognizing the mechanisms explaining differences between satisfaction with accessibility and perceived sufficiency can help policymakers clarify justice priorities and balance opportunity-based and outcome-based strategies in accessibility planning.