The Shared-Use City: Managing the Curb
This report discusses the street design and pricing implications of a large-scale introduction of ride-sharing services and other innovative mobility options in urban settings. It looks at the potential for a shift away from a model of the use of curb space focused on street parking to one that makes more flexible use of curb space for pick-up and drop-off zones for passengers and freight. The study presents the results of quantitative modelling of alternative curb-use scenarios and discusses their relative efficiency, contribution to wider policy objectives and implications on city revenues.
Policy Insights
- Establish a system of street designations according to their primary purpose.
- Anticipate and plan for the revenue impacts of shifting curb use from car parking to passenger pick up and drop off.
- Make room for ride services at the curb where this fits strategic priorities.
- Build on or create adjudication bodies to manage diverse demand for curb space in flexible ways and ultimately in real time.
- Help develop common standards for encoding information about curb use.
- Rethink streets and their curbs as flexible, self-adjusting spaces and plan accordingly.
- Manage curb space dynamically so it adapts to different uses and users.
- Establish effective tracking and monitoring of overall transport activity, including ride services.