The evolution of road pricing: past, present and future
The road pricing debate has evolved in recent years as more schemes have been implemented and policy objectives have shifted. London's congestion charge is a prominent example of a congestion charge that has evolved from reducing congestion towards tackling other goals such as emissions, public transport provision and a more balanced approach to urban spaces. The increasing recognition of the power of price signals to alleviate congestion, as well as climate change concerns and the impact of fuel economy improvements on fuel excise revenues dictate the need to move away from existing approaches to funding road infrastructure. While tolling of new road capacity is not unusual in many countries, introducing charges to existing road infrastructure remain rare. Vocal opponents to road pricing have dominated debate in many cities and countries where road pricing has been discussed. However, it is not altogether clear that majority public opinion is against road pricing; particularly if it is accompanied by reductions in other road user charges or improvements in transport alternatives. Strong political leadership is essential to maximizing public support and to deflect opposition during the crucial scheme design and implementation stages.
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Authors:
- Munro, C
- Conference:
- Publication Date: 2008-6
Language
- English
Media Info
- Pagination: 11p
- Monograph Title: ARF National Roads Summit 2008, Stamford Plaza Hotel, Double Bay, Sydney, 17 & 18 June 2008
Subject/Index Terms
- TRT Terms: Congestion pricing; Economics; Policy; Public opinion; Road pricing; Toll roads
- Geographic Terms: London (England)
- ATRI Terms: Congestion pricing; Policy; Public opinion; Road pricing; Transport economics
- Subject Areas: Economics; Highways; Policy;
Filing Info
- Accession Number: 01385570
- Record Type: Publication
- Source Agency: ARRB
- Files: ATRI
- Created Date: Aug 22 2012 7:00PM