Commuting mode choice in the context of travel demand management (TDM) policies: an empirical investigation in Edmonton, Alberta

Abstract

Travel demand management (TDM) for achieving sustainability is now considered one of the most important aspects of transportation planning and operation. It is now a well known fact that excessive use of private car results inefficient travel behaviour. So, from the TDM perspective, it is of great importance to analyze travel behaviour for improving our understanding on how to influence people to reduce car use and choose more sustainable modes such as carpool, public transit, park & ride, walk, bike etc. This study attempts an in-depth analysis of commuting mode choice behaviour using a week-long commuter survey data set collected in the City of Edmonton. Using error correlated nested logit model for panel data, this study investigates sensitivities of various factors including some specific TDM policies such as flexible office hours, compressed work week etc. Results of the investigation provide profound understanding and guidelines for designing effective TDM policies.