Cities with a dense public transport-network have the advantage of a very cost effective transportation system in comparison with cities relying largely on private transport. Furthermore, a cost-benefit analysis shows a definite advantage of light rail systems when compared to bus and metro systems. A light rail system must comply with the restrictions of the urban environment: ie it must use a minimum of space, it must minimise energy consumption, and it must effectively reduce the amount of car traffic overall, while increasing pedestrian and bicycle circulation. The success of a light rail/tram system running in the main road depends upon its attractiveness to users. The completed project of Seftigenstrasse in Wabern/Bern in Switzerland shows the good results (before/after comparison). (A)
Samenvatting