The value of slow travel: Economic appraisal of cycling projects using the logsum measure of consumer surplus

Abstract

Walking and cycling have clear benefits for users, even though they may be slower than other transport modes. However, these user benefits could be undervalued using traditional economic appraisal, in which speed increases or travel time savings are highly valued. This paper explores the use of the logsum measure of consumer surplus for valuing the user benefits of new active transport infrastructure, using new separated cycleways in Sydney (Australia) as a case study. The results suggest the value of user benefits can be significant – of a similar order of magnitude to the estimated value of the public health benefits – and it becomes more pronounced as cycleways are integrated into a connected network. The method could be used to inform transportation investment policy decisions in other jurisdictions, where suitable travel survey data are available.