Traditional cost-benefit analysis for the evaluation of transportation plans designed to serve a broad set of objectives is evaluated. Cost-benefit analysis was designed for the evaluation of plans in terms of a single objective- economic efficiency. An alternative method of evaluation, known as goal achievement analysis, is proposed and described. Plans are examined in terms of the entire set of objectives in a single system. Goals are defined operationally and goal achievement is measured in units which are relevant to the particular objectives. The relative effectiveness of alternative plans in achieving the set of desired objectives is determined by applying a weighting system to objectives and to the subgroups, sectors, locations and activities affected. A set of possible objectives of transportation plans is then posited, including user objectives relating to accessibility, accident reduction, and comfort and convenience: community objectives relating to historic site preservation, open space conservation, and community stability: economic objectives relating to project, system and fiscal efficiency, and income distribution: and environmental objectives relating to air pollution, noise, and aesthetic effects. Each objective is defined, and measures are proposed for three objectives /accident reduction, community stability and reduction of air pollution/ which would enable the treatment of these objectives in the goals achievement matrix. /author/.
Abstract