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U.S. Department of Energy
Office of Scientific and Technical Information

User`s response to pricing in a traffic network. Research report (Final)

Technical Report ·
OSTI ID:679083
Annual increases in automobile ownership, vehicular traffic and vehicle miles traveled have resulted in congestion problems, which in turn impact mobility, quality of life and air quality as well as waste fuel. The Clean Air Act Amendment of 1990 and ISTEA provisions have encouraged the exploration of alternatives to traditional capacity expansion approaches, such as demand management and congestion pricing. Congestion pricing involves charging for the use of the facility only during heavy congested periods. This encourages motorists to use the facility when costs are lower (less congested), use other modes such as transit, or to forego the trip completely. In addition to its potential as a source of new revenue, congestion pricing could contribute to reductions in fuel consumed. It would be compatible with the provisions of the 1990 Clean Air Act, because it would assist non-attainment areas to comply with stipulated standards. Technical feasibility has been established in Norway and Singapore, however, little is known regarding current levels of acceptability in the United States. Therefore, more information is needed to assess the viability of this alternative in Texas and determine its effectiveness and impact on congestion and fuel consumption.
Research Organization:
Department of Transportation, Southwest Region Univ. Transportation Center, College Station, TX (United States); Texas Univ., Center for Transportation Research, Austin, TX (United States); Department of Transportation, University Transportation Centers Program, Washington, DC (United States)
OSTI ID:
679083
Report Number(s):
PB--99-163909/XAB; SWUTC--99-465620-1
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English