Deconcentration of governmental authority with respect to public transport makes topical the question which design of public transport services should be aimed for. The Dutch government distinguishes three functions that are relevant for the design of public transport services: (1) a social function (supply transport to those who cannot use an alternative mode); (2) an environmental function (decrease car kilometres for environmental reasons); and (3) a congestion function (decrease traffic jams on roads). Each of the functions is dependent on problems relating to the car system. Examples are problems with respect to availability, environment, and space. So, public transport has no rationale of rationale of its own. However, it should have such a rationale, if also an accessibility function is attributed to public transport. Attributing this function to public transport is an important issue for discussion. Helpful at the discussion is to conceive of a situation in which the problems of the car system are dissolved, and to ask if supply of public transport services is still appreciated. (A)
Abstract