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 cities
The promise — and pitfalls — of the emerging “abundance” framework in transportation policy
How ridership patterns have stabilized into a new post-pandemic normal
Why mission creep threatens transit agencies from both the political left and right
What New York City’s congestion pricing success could mean for other U.S. cities
A candid assessment of electric bus deployment and why flexibility matters
How AI-powered bus lane enforcement is already improving service reliability
Why autonomous rail may be one of the most important sleeper trends in transit
The evolving role of micromobility and e-bike share in expanding transit access
Why 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.

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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 info@transitunplugged.com.

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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. This production provides general information, and should not be relied on as legal advice or opinion. Modaxo specifically disclaims all warranties, express or implied, and will not be liable for any losses, claims, or damages arising from the use of this presentation, from any material contained in it, or from any action or decision taken in response to it.

Looking Ahead: David Zipper on the Forces Shaping Transit in 2026

Transit Unplugged

Looking Ahead: David Zipper on the Forces Shaping Transit in 2026