Key West Transit Development Plan FY2025-2034

2.1 Service Area Description

Table 2-2 on the following page presents the population race breakdown for the City of Key West in the years 2016 and 2021. These numbers show shifts in the racial composition of the population from 2016 to 2021, with a decrease in the White population and increases in the Black population, Other* race category, and Two or More Races category. The percentage change reflects the magnitude of these shifts over the five-year period.

For example, an analysis of population density and commuting patterns aids in identifying areas with high demand for transit services. Simultaneously, insights into employment trends contribute to decisions regarding the timing and frequency of transit services. Furthermore, leveraging BEBR’s data on population projections assists in recognizing trends that can guide investments in alternative transit options and prioritize the development of new transit infrastructure. Key West is known for its diverse population with a mix of permanent residents, tourists, and seasonal residents. It is important to note, the American Community Survey captures information from residents but does not distinguish type of residency.

Table 2-1 provides demographic and transit-dependent population breakdown for the City of Key West in the years 2016 and 2021. These figures highlight changes in population demographics and transit dependent characteristics over the five-year period, indicating shifts in the proportions of disabled, elderly, and young individuals, as well as changes in household and zero-vehicle household percentages. Table 2-1: City of Key West Age and Transit Dependent Population Breakdown

Elderly Persons (Aged 65+) 3,584 (13.8%)

Young Persons (Aged <18) 2,967 (11.4%)

Total Population

Disabled Persons

Total Households

Zero-Vehicle Households

Year

2016

26,039 (100.0%)

2,820 (10.8%)

9,653 (100.0%)

1,224 (12.7%)

CHANGE

+737 (+2.8%)

-639 (-22.7%)

+1,433 (+40.0%)

-64 (-2.2%)

+1,349 (+14.0%)

+183 (+15.0%)

2021

26,776 (100.0%)

2,181 (8.1%)

5,017 (18.7%)

2,903 (10.8%)

11,002 (100.0%)

1,407 (12.8%)

Data Source: American Community Survey 2016 (5-year estimates) and 2021 (5-year estimates)

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Transit Development Plan FY 2025–2034