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No-queue road pricing: A comprehensive policy instrument for Europe?

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  • Schubert, Daniel
  • Sys, Christa
  • Vanelslander, Thierry
  • Roumboutsos, Athena

Abstract

European roads have become increasingly congested over the last decades. Addressing congestion is a multi-faceted issue. In the short term, adequate incentives may shift peak car travel to other times, roads or modes. In the longer term, investment projects should be prioritized to provide an efficient supply of road capacity. This also touches upon funding issues. This paper eclectically reviews the literature to demonstrate the potential of no-queue road pricing (NQRP, i.e., setting tolls responsive to real-time traffic conditions) to contribute to a European policy framework and address three challenges: (i) congestion management; (ii) investment project prioritization; and (iii) sustainable road funding. The limitations of NQRP and reasons why it has not been implemented anywhere in Europe yet are examined. Potential implementation issues are discussed, and a conceptual framework for socially acceptable NQRP is drafted.

Suggested Citation

  • Schubert, Daniel & Sys, Christa & Vanelslander, Thierry & Roumboutsos, Athena, 2022. "No-queue road pricing: A comprehensive policy instrument for Europe?," Utilities Policy, Elsevier, vol. 78(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:juipol:v:78:y:2022:i:c:s0957178722000789
    DOI: 10.1016/j.jup.2022.101413
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    1. Pablo González-Aliste & Iván Derpich & Mario López, 2023. "Reducing Urban Traffic Congestion via Charging Price," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 15(3), pages 1-21, January.

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