The Norwegian government has covered 45% of the major road and transit infrastructure investment in the Oslo region during 1990-2001, with a toll ring established in 1990 contributing to investment. During 1990-2002, traffic growth has been slightly lower than the national average suggesting that major road investments have not induced new traffic in the region. Traffic growth has occurred on major roads, while local roads have experienced unchanged traffic volumes. The toll ring resulted in a small reduction in car travel crossing the cordon toll. There was a slight reduction in travel times during morning rush hours, but no change in the afternoon rush hour. Air pollution levels do not appear to be negatively affected by road investment. Noise has been reduced where new roads have been built in tunnels. Traffic accident risks have been reduced, but to a smaller extent than nationally. Public opposition to the toll ring has decreased.
Samenvatting