Analysis on the Choice of Travel Modes of Residents of a Small-Sized Town

Mobility is an essential condition for ensuring the functionality of urban areas. This study analyses the transportation preferences of the inhabitants of Petroșani, a small city integrated into a conurbation with former mining functions (the Petroșani Basin). Data were collected based on household surveys and interviews regarding mobility behaviour. To evaluate travel patterns, the study applies three statistical methods: descriptive analysis, the χ2 (Chi-square) test and Multiple Correspondence Analysis (MCA). The results indicate significant variations according to gender and the demographic segments analysed (children, adolescents, students, active population, retirees). The MCA model explains 39.3% of the total inertia (Dim1 = 20.9%, Dim2 = 18.4%). The results indicate that the active population occupies a central position, characterized by a diversified mix of transport modes, while other segments present polarized modal behaviours. At a general level, the analysis highlights a clear prevalence of personal car use and pedestrian travel in Petroșani, underlining the need for local mobility policies adapted to the characteristics of the conurbation.