This paper discusses the most interesting methodological findings, arising from the examination of three route choice studies in Chile, using route preference (RP) and stated preference (SP) data. All the studies are in a special context, where the post-military Chilean Government passed a Concessions Law, that enabled the private sector to participate in the provision of public infrastructure. The studies relate to the following projects: (1) the choice between an existing, rather congested, toll tunnel and 14km of sharp curves and steep gradients; (2) a project to build a tolled motorway, connecting two cities in southern Chile, to avoid three existing but rather dangerous roads connecting them, and (3) a project to build an urban tolled highway in Santiago, to avoid travelling via some more congested parts of that city. The settings of the three projects are discussed, together with the data gathered in each case. The main findings and mathematical results are presented, concentrating on the second project, which offered the most interesting issues for discussion. Finally, the conclusions of the study are outlined. The estimated models are currently being used to evaluate some real investment projects in Chile.
Samenvatting