Abstract
Congestion is threatening the accessibility and liveability of urban regions. Cities are usually hesitant to consider the effective, yet controversial idea of congestion pricing as a measure to abate the growing economic and environmental problems. In the longstanding search for an effective and acceptable pricing scheme, there has been an increased interest in tradable credits. Compared to charging instruments, this novel concept has the theoretical advantage that it can better address equity issues while effectively reducing congestion. Although one may argue that tradable peak credits (TPC) lead to higher public acceptability, very few empirical studies have researched this. Therefore, this study explores attitudes towards TPC using five focus groups with Dutch citizens. The participants were confronted with a hypothetical city where two instruments were suggested: peak charge (PC) and TPC. Most participants preferred PC and only two participants supported TPC while opposing PC. The advantages as addressed in literature played minor roles in the discussions. Participants revealed a sceptical attitude towards TPC or were more convinced about PC. Contrary to expectations, the attitudes became more negative as the discussions developed. Based on these insights, we propose directions for future research to assist the search for an acceptable congestion pricing instrument.
Highlights
Accessibility is essential for strong and vital cities, but is under pressure in many urban areas
One may argue that tradable peak credits (TPC) lead to higher public acceptability, very few empirical studies have researched this
It is important to note that the results in 4.1, 4.2, and 4.3 are based on the TPC scheme in which the credits are allocated based on historical road use
Summary
Accessibility is essential for strong and vital cities, but is under pressure in many urban areas. Many researchers have tried to explain why people accept (or reject) road pricing (Gaunt et al, 2007; Grisolía et al, 2015; Jaensirisak et al, 2005; Kim et al, 2013; Schade & Schlag, 2003; Schuitema & Steg, 2008; Ubbels & Verhoef, 2006) These studies have revealed various reasons why people oppose congestion pricing including people's disbelief in the effectiveness and efficiency of the scheme, scepticism towards the government and how they will employ the revenues, the perception that the scheme will treat people unfairly, and the expectation that they will be financially ill-served. With these arguments in mind, transport economists have increasingly shown an interest in the concept of tradable credits as an instrument to manage congestion (e.g. Raux, 2002; Verhoef et al, 1997; Viegas, 2001)
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