Also discussed here: Stockholm congestion pricing has had long term effects on traffic levels (Roadpricing, Sep. 26, 2012)
Today we review a news report from the European Commission on the lasting impact of congestion charging in Stockholm which started as a pilot in 2005 after the success of the London implementation in 2003 and then confirmed it by a slim majority by a referendum. Not only was the scheme effective but the public approval rating of it almost doubled, due partly to the benefits to mobility areas outside the charging zone accomplished from the revenue produced. Another notable point is that the fear of traffic flooding streets and roads outside of the charging zone are unfounded.
Key Quotes:
“congestion charging can work over the long-term, supporting plans to introduce such charges in other cities across Europe.”
“Non-exempt* traffic had reduced by 29% across the Stockholm cordon when the congestion charge was introduced in 2005, and that level of reduction has been sustained even though prices have not increased” “there has been no significant increases in traffic or congestion on other routes, except that attributable to population increases”
“public acceptability for the scheme is now 70%, up from 36% in 2006 .. indicating that the benefits of permanent reductions in traffic volumes and improved mobility are now widely accepted”
“most of the revenue is being used to support enhancements to roads outside the charging zone, which appears to be a key part of the charge gaining acceptance by people in Stockholm”
Related articles
No comments:
Post a Comment