150 likes | 247 Vues
Explore the impact of congestion on economic growth and the essential role of roads in addressing mobility challenges. Learn about the benefits of efficient transportation networks and innovative tolling solutions to manage traffic flow effectively.
E N D
The Road More Traveled: Tools, Strategies, and Policy Imperatives Samuel R. Staley, PH.D. Director, Urban and Land Use Policy, Reason Foundation (e) sam.staley@reason.org Presentation given to Team Texas, San Antonio, Texas, July 13, 2007.
Why congestion matters… And roads are the solution
Mobility is critical to economic growth growth • Cities benefit from concentrations of labor, technology, other resources; • “Agglomeration” economies • These benefits are offset by negative “externalities” • Congestion • Noise • Density • Congestion lowers travel speed, increases travel times • Shrinks the opportunity circle • Jobs, schools, and homes within 30 min. travel time become smaller • “Balkanizes” urban systems Reason Foundation, http://www.reason.org
Why roads?Trips have become more complex Reason Foundation, http://www.reason.org
Automobiles are “king” when flexibility, adaptability, and speed are highly valued • General travel is even more automobile focused • Automobiles are increasing their share of commutes Reason Foundation, http://www.reason.org
Where do we go from here? Roads more traveled
A hint from Houston Reason Foundation, http://www.reason.org
But, is this our transportation future? Reason Foundation, http://www.reason.org
Building capacity: Highways Reason Foundation, http://www.reason.org
Building Capacity: Arterials Reason Foundation, http://www.reason.org
Getting from here to there: The power of tolling
Electronic Tolling Reason Foundation, http://www.reason.org
Variable rate tolling Reason Foundation, http://www.reason.org
Managed Lanes/HOT Lanes Reason Foundation, http://www.reason.org
Key features of congestion-free, regional transportation network • Sufficient physical capacity to handle travel demand • New capacity where demand warrants the investment • ITS to ensure network efficiencies are maximized • Market-priced to manage regional flows along major corridors based on consumer demand and choice Reason Foundation, http://www.reason.org