A continued failure to adequately deal with the reality of mounting traffic congestion in urban centres has serious negative implications not only for the environment, but for economic and social prosperity as well. Since cities dominate the economic life of the nation, these impacts will be felt in every corner of the country. The impact of the economic downturn on the transportation systems within urban centres has been somewhat paradoxical. While transit has suffered (not unexpectedly) devastating ridership losses, the road network just grows more congested each year. The inevitable outcome: further cutbacks to transit services, a downward spiral in ridership, leading to even more road congestion to even more road congestion and its attendant consequences. The impact on economic prosperity is especially alarming. Congestion in the Greater Toronto Area alone is estimated to cost shippers $2 billion annually due to delays today, and is projected to grow to a cost of over $6.5 billion per year by 2001. With urban space at a premium, it is unlikely that constructing new or wider roads offer much of an option. While transit offers perhaps one opportunity for stemming the move towards auto use, it is failing to meet its mandate. This paper argues that transit will only turn around if it achieves full inter-regional integration complemented with new sophisticated fare collection technology. While other avenues are also available none are as potentially cost effective. (A)
Samenvatting