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The Economics of Congestion: a Comment

Author

Listed:
  • Fredric C. Menz

    (Clarkson College of Technology)

  • John K. Mullen

    (Clarkson College of Technology)

Abstract

Congestion is a subject of considerable importance, particularly in outdoor recreation. This article comments on a recent review of the literature on the economics of congestion. The purpose of this article is to formally distinguish between the subjective and objective effects of crowding and thereby develop a more general model for analysis of the optimal size of facilities subject to congestion. Optimal capacit will depend not only on the increased time costs associated with crowding but also individual preferences for crowding. The effect is expected to vary for both individuals and activities.

Suggested Citation

  • Fredric C. Menz & John K. Mullen, 1981. "The Economics of Congestion: a Comment," Public Finance Review, , vol. 9(1), pages 107-116, January.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:pubfin:v:9:y:1981:i:1:p:107-116
    DOI: 10.1177/109114218100900109
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Porter, Richard C, 1977. "On the Optimal Size of Underpriced Facilities," American Economic Review, American Economic Association, vol. 67(4), pages 753-760, September.
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    6. James M. Buchanan & Richard E. Wagner, 1970. "An Efficiency Basis for Federal Fiscal Equalization," NBER Chapters, in: The Analysis of Public Output, pages 139-162, National Bureau of Economic Research, Inc.
    7. Muellbauer, John, 1974. "Household Production Theory, Quality, and the "Hedonic Technique."," American Economic Review, American Economic Association, vol. 64(6), pages 977-994, December.
    8. Freeman, A. III & Haveman, Robert M., 1977. "Congestion, quality deterioration, and heterogeneous tastes," Journal of Public Economics, Elsevier, vol. 8(2), pages 225-232, October.
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