Urban Transport Policy Research Articles

A first screening of black carbon concentrations whilst commuting by diesel-fuelled buses in Montevideo, Uruguay.

Urban bus commuters are exposed to a range of traffic-related air pollutants, including black carbon (BC) particles, a major hazardous component of vehicle exhaust emissions. This study provides the first assessment of in-cabin BC concentrations aboard diesel-fuelled public buses in Montevideo, Uruguay. Our objective was to assess BC concentrations during evening peak commuting hours and to examine how specific traffic elements, such as bus stops, traffic lights and traffic volume, influence exposure levels. We implemented a structured sampling strategy to maximise the reliability of our findings by collecting data during four consecutive weekdays within the same timeframe (17:00-18:00 h) in May 2019. We measured BC concentrations at a high-frequency sampling rate using a handheld aethalometer, focusing on two bus routes. The mean in-cabin BC concentration was 14.28±14.38μgm⁻³, with considerable spatial variability. Notably, BC concentrations were significantly higher at traffic lights and bus stops, where stop-and-go driving patterns and idling contribute to increased emissions, while the constant opening and closing of doors allows outside air to infiltrate. We found a positive trend between traffic volume and median BC concentrations, consistent with previous studies conducted in other cities. Compared to similar studies in South America, BC concentrations were found to be intermediate, but considerably higher than those observed in North American and European cities. This study underscores the importance of implementing targeted interventions in urban transport policies, specifically addressing congestion points, like bus stops and traffic lights, to effectively reduce commuter exposure to harmful air pollutants. Whilst our study focused on Montevideo, interventions to combat traffic-related air pollutants should be expanded across Latin American cities, where reliance on diesel-powered public transportation remains prevalent.

Effective combinations of urban transportation policies using an artificial society model

Effective combinations of urban transportation policies using an artificial society model

ASSESSING THE URBANIZATION-DRIVEN CHALLENGES OF TRANSPORTATION SCARCITY AND COMMUTER ACCESSIBILITY IN DAVAO CITY: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW

This systematic review explores the transportation challenges and commuter accessibility issues arising from urbanization in Davao City. Following the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines, the study analyzes relevant literature to offer a thorough overview of the problem. Key themes identified include inadequate public transportation, unequal accessibility in outlying areas, environmental concerns, and lack of cohesive urban and transportation planning. The review concludes with practical recommendations, focusing on sustainable urban transport policies, infrastructure development, and community-oriented planning to effectively tackle these challenges.

Origin-Destination Spatial-Temporal Patterns of Dockless Shared Bikes Based on Shopping Activities and Its Application in Urban Planning: The Case of Nanjing

The utilization of dockless shared bikes for shopping purposes has become increasingly prevalent. This research seeks to optimize the configuration of facilities and transportation policies for shared bike travel by analyzing the spatiotemporal patterns of shopping trips from the perspectives of destination (D), origin (O), and O-D correlation in Nanjing’s main city area. As the second-largest commercial center in East China, Nanjing offers a significant context for this research. First, we introduce the “cycling intensity” indicator to analyze the patterns of shared bicycle trips with shopping facilities as destinations at both the subdistrict and road section scales. Second, we utilize spatial autocorrelation analysis and k-means clustering to explore the outflow patterns of shared bicycle trips originating from shopping facilities. Finally, we employ grey correlation analysis to investigate the dynamic flow correlations of shared bicycle O-D trips around various grades of shopping facilities at both subdistrict and road section levels. Concurrently, we endeavored to delineate the practical transformation and application of the research findings. Our results indicate the following: (1) There is a high concentration of cycling intensity around shopping facilities on east–west and north–south roads, with community shopping facilities primarily associated with north–south roads. (2) The outflow of shared bikes from shopping areas can be categorized into four distinct modes. (3) The inflow and outflow of shopping trips exhibit significant synchronicity, particularly on the branch routes. These findings can provide valuable insights for zoning planning, construction of bicycle infrastructure, and formulation of sustainable urban transportation policies.

Impact of urban facilities spatial inequality on sustainable travel mode.

With the implementation of sustainable development objectives in developing countries, urban planning, land use regulation, and urban mobility policies are expected to help reduce inequalities in access to urban facilities. Urban transport policies are also expected to encourage travel by non-motorised modes and public transport. These are considered to be the sustainable modes of urban transport. In this paper, we investigate how inequality of urban facilities impacts trips made by sustainable modes in the city of Santiago de Chile. We use a Poisson regression model and its geographical extension, the geographically weighted Poisson regression model (GWPR). The results suggest that the inequality of urban facilities impacts trips made by sustainable modes. The variables with the highest relevance are the spatial distribution of mixed land use, the spatial distribution of urban services related to transport infrastructure, primary and secondary education, as well as the spatial distribution of demographic variables related to people's life cycle.

Optimizing Traveler Behavior Between MADINA and JEDDA Using UPPAAL Stratego: A Stochastic Priced Timed Games Approach

This study looks at how travelers move between MADINA and JEDDA, using the UPPAAL Stratego tool to tackle the complexities of urban mobility. As cities grow, effective transportation planning becomes more challenging. Travelers have three options: car, bus, and train. The choices for car and bus travel are impacted by traffic conditions, which can vary between heavy and light, affecting both travel time and cost. We propose a detailed mathematical model that captures all possible scenarios related to these travel options, incorporating the uncertainties of real life. This allows us to simulate different traffic situations. By using UPPAAL Stratego, we evaluate three strategies: the Safe Strategy, which minimizes risk; the Fast Strategy, which aims to reduce travel time; and the Fast and Safe Strategy, which seeks a balance between speed and safety. This paper starts with an introduction to the Stochastic Priced Timed Games approach, highlighting its relevance in modeling dynamic travel environments. We then provide an overview of UPPAAL Stratego, showcasing its abilities in generating, optimizing, and comparing strategies. Next, we outline our mathematical model, explaining the assumptions, parameters, and data sources we used. Our simulation results illustrate how each strategy performs under different conditions, shedding light on traveler preferences and behaviors. The findings underscore the significance of accounting for traffic variability in travel planning and offer important insights for urban transportation policies aimed at improving the traveler experience and optimizing resource use. Additionally, we emphasize the theoretical contributions of our model by demonstrating its applicability to real-world scenarios and its potential to inform future research in urban mobility optimization. Ultimately, this research adds to the growing knowledge of smart transportation systems, demonstrating how formal mathematical modeling can address complex real-world challenges and inform future urban mobility strategies.

Effects of meteorology on bike-sharing: Cases of 13 cities using non-linear analyses

Bike-sharing system (BSS) provides bicycle rental services for short-term use. The association of BSS with meteorological factors has not been studied sufficiently using nonlinear analysis. To bridge these gaps, this study explored the impact of meteorological conditions on bike-sharing system (BSS) usage in 13 cities in Europe and North America, using a combination of nonlinear analyses to avoid the limitations of linear analyses used traditionally. Specifically, self-organizing map (SOM) and decision tree analyses were used. The SOM results revealed six meteorological profiles (clusters). Kruskal–Wallis test was applied to determine the main effect of the cluster on the input variables. The decision tree indicated temperature (34.4 %), followed by clusters (23.3 %), and cities (17.5 %) as the most influential factors on BSS usage. These findings demonstrated the need to generate nonlinear analyses to understand the dynamic interaction of meteorological variables and BSS usage, providing insights for developing sustainable urban transportation policies.

Urban Transport Policies and Net Zero Emissions in the European Union

This review discusses the role of road transport policies in achieving the European Union's ambitious zero-emission target for the transportation sector by 2050 and provides an overview of the empirical literature that studies the effectiveness of urban transport policies. The analysis is divided into two parts. First, we study policies that are relevant in the transitional phase from internal combustion engine vehicles to battery electric vehicles (BEVs), then we discuss policies that will remain relevant as we switch entirely to BEVs. In the best-case scenario, the transition can be driven by fuel taxes, but in case fuel taxes are not feasible or acceptable, a combination of penalties for buying polluting vehicles and subsidies for scrappage of such vehicles might be the best compromise. In the long run, road space will be increasingly at a premium, and to ensure its efficient use, increasingly sophisticated road-pricing policies will be needed.

Efficiency and Equity Impacts of Urban Transportation Policies with Equilibrium Sorting

Efficiency and Equity Impacts of Urban Transportation Policies with Equilibrium Sorting

Exploring the role of configurational accessibility of alleyways on facilitating wayfinding transportation within the organic street network systems

Despite the significant role of alleyways in urban spatial configuration and accessibility as critical structures of urban infrastructure, there remains a noticeable gap in understanding their specific role in urban transportation policies. The main aim of the present study is to investigate the role of configurational accessibility of alleyways in facilitating wayfinding within organic street network systems. A mixed method was applied using Space Syntax and empirical observations. Moreover, Pearson correlations and t-tests were used to discern the association between variables and compare independent groups using SPSS software. The findings from the syntactical analysis strongly indicate that alleyways significantly impact configurational accessibility within urban network systems. Furthermore, the complex and labyrinthine structure of organic alleyways was found to significantly hinder the intelligibility of urban areas, making navigation more challenging. The results revealed a significant correlation between vehicle mobility and connectivity values, with higher levels of mobility consistently linked to increased connectivity values. The outcomes also indicated that alleys connected to main streets play a crucial role in facilitating wayfinding within urban network systems. This study contributes to a more profound understanding of the role of alleyways in urban network systems for urban planners and transportation engineers, paving the way for more targeted sustainable urban planning strategies.

Integrated Urban Transport and Land-Use Policies in Reducing CO2 Emissions and Energy Consumption: Case Study of a Medium-Sized City in Thailand

In developing cities, transport activities have become one of the primary sources of CO2 emissions and energy consumption owing to rapid economic growth, urbanization, and motorization. Khon Kaen City, Thailand, was chosen as a representative mid-sized city of a developing country to investigate the potential influences of transit-oriented development (TOD), light rail transit (LRT), and electric vehicle (EV) policy integration scenarios on CO2 emission and energy consumption reductions in 2016, 2026, and 2046. The TOD did not significantly reduce CO2 emissions or energy consumption because it was only applied in one area of the city. The LRT development also had a small effect because of the small proportion of modal shifts to LRT. However, EV utilization offered the greatest potential for reducing both CO2 emissions and energy consumption. In addition, the integrated scenario combining the three policies had a promising effect, diminishing both CO2 emissions and energy consumption, because it gathered the potential merits and benefits of each individual policy.

Sustainable propulsion technology selection in penultimate mile delivery using the FullEX-AROMAN method

Sustainable transport is the priority for future cities and society. It is necessary to make sustainable urban transport policies to mitigate the harmful effects of current transportation systems. One of the essential issues in making cities cleaner is the propulsion technology of light commercial vehicles (LCVs). Most of the LCVs are compressed natural gas (CNG) and diesel-powered. However, cleaner, sustainable power sources, such as hydrogen, hybrid, solar, and electric have appeared in the market. This paper addresses the selection of propulsion technology for LCVs up to 3.5 tones for the Czech Post vehicle fleet. In this study, three main pillars are considered: economic, socio-environmental, and technical. Czech Post currently uses CNG-powered vehicles to transport shipments in penultimate mile delivery. The integrated FullEX-alternative ranking order method accounting for the two-step normalization (AROMAN) approach selects the best sustainable propulsion technology for the Czech Post vehicle fleet. The FullEX method identifies the criteria weights, while the AROMAN method ranks propulsion technologies. The results of the integrated approach reveal that the best propulsion technology for penultimate mile delivery is electrically powered, followed by hydrogen, hybrid, and CNG. A comparative analysis with other multi-criteria decision-making methods is also performed. The results confirm that the electrically powered solution is the best. The sensitivity analysis is carried out. The FullEX-AROMAN shows high resilience.

Shedding light on cycling in the dark: Some evidence from Flanders (Belgium)

Darkness is a barrier to cycling because the risk of an accident is higher and the feeling of social safety is lower. Factors influencing the choice to cycle (e.g., socio-demographic factors) have already been studied extensively, but rarely in relation to darkness. To implement strategies for increasing bicycle use (also when it is dark), we need to know what decision factors play a role for people to cycle or not when it is dark. A mixed method approach is adopted; applying a logistic regression using data of 842 surveyed cyclists in the province of East Flanders (Belgium), supplemented a qualitative analysis using 26 in-depth semi-structured interviews. Results show that knowing and using a route frequently has a positive effect on the likelihood of cycling in the dark. Elderly (and retirees) are less likely to cycle in the dark compared to youth and young adults. The latter group (ranging between 11 and 17 years old) often cycle to school while it is still dark (either or not accompanied by a parent). Whether or not one cycles alone or in group has a lower or higher propensity to cycle during the dark. People with a racing bike often cycle in groups and are less likely to cycle in the dark. Recreative and sportive cycle tours are mostly done during the day. Cyclists with an e-bike and speed pedelec have a higher likelihood to cycle in the dark compared to those who cycle on a regular bike. Women have 84% lower odds to cycle in the dark compared to men because they perceive darkness as less socially safe. Lastly, living in a rural environment has a positive impact on the odds to cycle in the dark compared to more urban environments. Establishing a cycling culture with inclusive infrastructure is essential for addressing the diverse needs of vulnerable groups and ensuring the provision of safe routes. A holistic approach is critical to effectively integrate these elements into urban planning and transport policies.

Changes in daily mobility and new public transport supply in Dakar (2000 – 2015)

In Dakar, the capital of Senegal, the urban transport policy aims to restructure and modernize the supply of public transport. The implementation of this policy since the years 2000 has led to the creation of the public bus company Dakar Dem Dikk and the replacement and reorganization of a number of minibuses owned by informal operators, which locally go under the name of Tata. However, this new supply still coexists with older, more or less informal, transport modes, mainly “Cars Rapides” and “Ndiaga Ndiaye” minibuses, collective clandestine taxis, and “yellow and black” taxis. The question then arises as to the impact of the new public transport supply on the mobility practices of the city’s residents. Data from two household mobility surveys, undertaken respectively in 2000 and 2015, in the Region of Dakar is used to conduct a diachronic analysis of mobility behavior. The results highlight the extent to which changes in public transport supply have modified flows and mode use for different categories of urban residents, in a context where daily mobility is highly dependent on public transport.

Safety of Cyclists in Poland in the Context of European Road Traffic

The growing interest in cycling as a means of urban transport has led to an increased focus on cyclist safety as a key aspect of urban planning and transport policy. Simulation studies conducted by the International Transport Forum have demonstrated that reductions in CO2 and other pollutants can be achieved in the context of urban transport, thus realising the goals of decarbonising road transport. The spread of modal transport in cities is a potential reality within the next decade. Bicycles play a significant role in this context. This article presents an analysis of data on accidents involving cyclists. National and international data were analysed to identify the main risk factors. The aim of the paper is to analyse the risk to cyclists with an attempt to identify and map the five biggest risks to cyclists in urban traffic. The aim of the research is to raise awareness of cyclist safety issues and to identify directions for further action to reduce accidents and improve overall road safety. The results of the conducted analyses indicate that the risk for cyclists in road traffic (including urban traffic) has been on a noticeable downward trend over the past five to ten years. This trend allows for the mapping of the most significant types/risks in cycling in urban environments, thereby enabling the implementation of risk management strategies based on the method of risk mapping.

The Hierarchical Configurations of Policy Networks: A Study of Decision-Making Processes in Urban Transport

This study sheds light on a commonly overlooked aspect in network literature: the potential for hierarchized behavior within networks. Providing a longitudinal case study of decision-making behavior in urban transport policy networks, the study also adds to calls for longitudinal studies in the field of public administration. By analyzing documents and interviews, the study reveals the gradual shift towards hierarchical decision-making within networked structures. Furthermore, it highlights how organizational variables shape networked behavior over time, both facilitating and constraining hierarchized behavior. Consequently, this article suggests that hierarchized and collaborative dynamics co-exist and co-evolve within policy networks.

Sustainable urban transportation performance in Ankara: A comparative study

Urban mobility is increasing rapidly due to the increasing population, number of motor vehicles and economic developments in Türkiye. Private vehicles are given priority in ur-ban transportation policies and practices in metropolitan municipalities. Therefore, prob-lems such as traffic congestion, delays, air pollution, noise, improper land use, traffic ac-cidents and decrease quality of life are experienced. Although sustainable transportation is generally referred to with air pollution, global warming and climate change; It refers to a wide transportation structure that is sustainable in terms of economic, social and envi-ronmental effects. In this study, Ankara's sustainable urban transportation performance was compared with İstanbul, İzmir, Konya and Antalya, using the Sustainable Urban Transportation Index (SURKENT), which was previously developed by the author. In SURKENT, 15 sub-indicators are defined under 4 main indicators. The main indicators are Environmental Performance (EP), Transportation Performance (TP), Energy Perfor-mance (EnP) and Municipality Governance Performance (MGP). 4 sub-indicators were used under Environmental Performance, 7 under Transportation Performance, 2 under Energy Performance and 2 sub-indicators under Municipality Governance Performance. Minimum-maximum normalization was used for sub-indicators containing quantitative data, and 0-100 scoring was used for qualitative data. The ranking of cities with the high-est sustainable urban transportation performance was found as follows: İstanbul, İzmir, Konya, Ankara, Antalya. Ankara; it is 3rd in EP, 3rd in TP, 5th in EnP and 2nd in MGP.

The complex web of land use planning, legislation and urban mobility in Maseru, Lesotho

Applying an exploratory case study design, the study analyses urban mobility along the Main North 1 Road. We argue that urban mobility in Maseru, Lesotho is compromised by a complex web of issues including inconsistent urban transport policies, inadequate road infrastructure, and land use activities along some roads. Data were collected from primary and secondary sources, including key informant interviews, direct observations, and a review of policy documents on urban mobility. We show that urban mobility along the Main North 1 Road is jeopardised by outdated land use planning schemes and legislation that are out of sync with local realities as they support vehicular movement while neglecting pedestrians’ needs, compromising their safety. The state of the infrastructure also contributes to urban mobility inefficiencies. The study concludes that the urban mobility system needs to be understood holistically to identify leverage points critical for interventions and planning for sustainable urban mobility.

What can urban transport policy achieve? How transport-policy-invariant characteristics relate to city-level car ownership and car use

Most case and comparative studies discuss urban characteristics that can hardly be influenced by urban transport policies. However, these studies do not quantify the impact of the so-called contextual factors on car ownership and car use. This paper focuses on these contextual factors and their associations with car ownership and car use. Regression models show that contextual factors - such as city size, the share of households with children and the jobs-housing balance - explain a substantial part of the variance in car ownership and car trips in 44 German cities. Residual analyses reveal that neglecting contextual factors leads to biases in comparative studies and consequently in the evaluation of urban transport policies. Thus, there is a risk that cities with favourable contextual factors may be mistakenly viewed as successful examples of transport policy, whereas successful policies in cities with less favourable contextual factors may be overlooked.

Optimal Urban Transportation Policy: Evidence from Chicago

Optimal Urban Transportation Policy: Evidence from Chicago