A methodology for the evaluation of alternative tramway alignments in the early stages of a feasibility study and application to the city of Thessaloniki, Greece

In most cases, the tramway is a mode of public transportation that provides mass transportation for passengers under high-quality conditions. Around the globe there are currently about 450 tramway systems operating, with about 30 of them under construction. While in densely-populated urban areas, in particular, tramway systems provide a good transportation alternative to other modes of transportation, they also facilitate a better planning of urban space. An improvement to the environment and quality of life, in general, are subsequent benefits.