Decongesting our Cities
Summary and Conclusions
This report reviews a wide range of congestion control measures. It analyses their effectiveness, financial and operational requirements, implementation time and public acceptability. It focuses on the role of technology in addressing congestion, including sensors, wireless systems, traffic light optimisation and trip planning data. The report takes an in‑depth look at the use of HOT lanes to control congestion, the different ways in which they can be used and their effectiveness relative to other initiatives. The report is based on discussions held during the September 2020 ITF Roundtable on Congestion Control Experience and Recommendations.
Policy Insights
- Present congestion charging in a positive light, as value pricing or decongestion charging, rather than as an additional tax.
- Consider congestion charging as part of sustainable urban mobility plans.
- Make more use of HOT lanes and peak pricing on tolled expressways.
- Ensure adequate user choice to accommodate responses to congestion charging.
- Ensure that congestion charging revenues are used effectively and in ways that have public support.
- Hypothecate revenues from congestion charges flexibly.
- Use differentiated congestion charges to maximise the benefits and minimise the costs.
| Date of Publication | 11 May 2021 |
|---|---|
| Number of Pages | 49 |
| OECD iLibrary Link | https://doi.org/10.1787/930c8f58-en |
| Document |
 decongesting-our-cities.pdf |
| Publication Type | Roundtable Report |
| Publisher | OECD/ITF |