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What makes the transportation problem a problem? Statistics and quantitative research were useful in framing the transportation problem, but were ineffectual for determining the nature and scope of the problem. The problem must be contextualized. However, the transportation problem is complex, with a number of variables and effects. Different people will have different perspectives on the problem.

A clear understanding of the transportation problem required understanding the problem from multiple perspectives. To this end, interviews with stakeholders from the private and public sector were held.

During the Winter of 2002, major stakeholders were identified for preliminary interviews. These stakeholders were selected either because they have been impacted by transportation problems in Providence or have a role in transportation planning. The stakeholders were asked to describe their transportation situations and impacts. The information gathered from these interviews was essential in assessing the nature and depth of the Providence's transportation problem. The stakeholders for this study are:

• Brown University
• Rhode Island School of Design
• Rhode Island Hospital
• Providence Foundation
• Johnson and Wales
• Rhode Island Public Transit Authority
• City of Providence

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