Assessment of congestion pricing for reducing urban congestion and improving air quality. Final research report

The principal goal of this study is to provide the Texas Department of Transportation engineers and officials with information and approaches that would assist in: (1) determining the potential of road pricing for urban congestion control, air quality enhancement, and revenue generation in Texas; and (2) developing a strategy for possible implementation of road pricing in Texas. Previous experience with congestion pricing in the U.S. and overseas is reviewed, revealing successful aspects as well as areas of concern. An integrated methodology for the evaluation of the networkwide traffic and air quality impacts of particular pricing schemes is developed. It is based on the DYNASMART dynamic simulation assignment framework, expanded to incorporate specific user responses to pricing. An extensive stated preference survey of residents of Dallas, Houston, El Paso, and San Antonio is also conducted, indicating generally negative public attitudes towards pricing.