Studies and real-life examples have shown that a "correct" pricing mechanism can balance the need for the use of roads in terms of both space and time. However, it has also been found that the implementation of such systems still requires the equitable distribution of costs (including impacts) and benefits across each community. Many see road pricing as a means of prioritizing infrastructure development without having to rely on large-scale investment from government agencies. The benefits of road pricing schemes include an improved level in travel demand management with environmental, amenity and accessibility (livability) benefits as by-products for a community. Road pricing may be one of the most powerful tools available to juggle competing travel demands. From a review of national and international practice this paper explores each of the above ideas and ultimately concludes that there is a place for "road pricing" within our communities. (a) For the covering entry of this conference, please see ITRD abstract no. E212956.
Samenvatting