POSITIVE CONSUMPTION EXTERNALITIES IN PUBLIC TRANSPORT

The network effect is a well explored concept in transport economics. Nevertheless, this effect can be usefully integrated with the more simple, positive relation existing between public transport patronage and its frequency (Mohring effect). It is possible to derive from this specific relation the existence of a positive externally in the use of public transport services, an externally that in turn generates a market non-optimality. The paper derives a simple model for quantifying this externally and the efficient quantity of traffic. From this model it is possible to calculate an efficient subsidy, symmetric correspondence with efficient pricing rules for road congestion. The paper elaborates an example of quantitative evaluation, assuming a set of realistic figures for a bus service, in terms of value of time, tariffs, cost, patronage and frequency. Furthermore, three possible applications are briefly discussed: the enlargement of the supply of services instead of subsidization, a possible strategy for airport charges, and the combined use of efficient subsidies and road-pricing in urban situations, even taking into account some equity aspects of club goods.

Language

  • English

Media Info

  • Features: Figures; References;
  • Pagination: p. 387-394

Subject/Index Terms

Filing Info

  • Accession Number: 00783947
  • Record Type: Publication
  • ISBN: 0080435904
  • Report/Paper Numbers: Volume 1
  • Files: TRIS, ATRI
  • Created Date: Feb 7 2000 12:00AM