Despite successful examples of congestion charging schemes abroad, one ofthe greatest barriers to implementing congestion charging in the United States is winning public approval. The research reported in this paper analyzed factors influencing public approval of congestion charging by learning from public perceptions abroad. Surveys in London and Stockholm, where congestion charging has been successfully introduced, were used to evaluatethe perceived effects of congestion charging on traffic, the environment,and public transport. Additional surveys in Atlanta, Washington DC, and New York City illustrated awareness and support of congestion charging in U.S. cities. Data analysis revealed that respondents who were familiar withcongestion charging, who trusted the reported benefits, or who often usedtransportation modes other than cars were more likely to express support.The research indicates that U.S. cities considering congestion charges could increase the chances of acceptance by promoting the environmental benefits of congestion charging, improving public transit accessibility, and having a clear plan for revenue spending to increase public approval.
Abstract