In the Dutch cities of Bodegraven, Alphen aan den Rijn, Woerden and Gouda (containing two locations), there are five locations which might be appropriate for the construction of park and ride schemes (P+R schemes). The criteria that affect the location choice for a P+R scheme are divided into main and subcriteria. The main standards are: (1) traffic problems; (2) financing; (3) practicability of a P+R scheme; (4) traffic policy; (5) environmental policy; and (6) physical environment. Each main standard is divided into subcriteria. The application of a multi criteria analysis has produced a ranking of the five locations for the construction of P+R schemes. It appears that the locations in Woerden and to the north of the aqueduct of Gouda are the most appropriate, followed by the location in Bodegraven. The locations next to the railway station of Gouda and in Alphen aan den Rijn appear to be the least appropriate. When applying a sensitivity analysis, it appears that the location in Woerden should be preferred to the location at the aqueduct of Gouda. Compared with the locations in Bodegraven and next to the railway station of Gouda, the location in Alphen aan den Rijn is more appropriate for the construction of a P+R scheme. At the same time, the location in Alphen aan den Rijn is expected to make a less contribution to reduce the total number of car kilometres. The final decision to provide a P+R scheme is a matter for the municipalities themselves.
Abstract