Approximately 76 percent of Americans are open to taking ­public transportation instead of driving as the cost to own and operate a vehicle rises, according to a new America THINKS survey from HNTB Corp. That’s an increase from 69 percent in 2010, when HNTB last asked this question.

“Successful communities thrive when transit is part of a healthy mix of transportation choices,” said Liz Rao, HNTB chair, public transit services. “That’s never been more true as the costs of commuting by car and congestion on America’s highways continue to increase.”

According to the survey, high gas prices would drive the decision for 41 percent of Americans who would choose public transportation over ­driving—an increase of 12 percent from the 2010 research.

The study is part of HNTB’s America THINKS research series on infrastructure to encourage discussion among public transportation industry professionals, elected and appointed officials, and the general public.

HNTB is an employee-owned firm serving public and private owners and construction contractors. For more information, visit http://www.hntb.com.