RURAL PASSENGER TRANSPORTATION IN THE NETHERLANDS

The close relation in the Netherlands between rural passenger transportation, national transportation policy, and rural development objectives is described. Although Dutch cities are geographically close to one another, they remain physically separated by rural countryside as a result of strict land use control. More than one-third of the total population lives in rural areas or small towns. A high level of demand for intercity trips gives rise to high frequency and capacity of service for rural passenger travel, by both train and bus. The nationwide regional bus network is more extensive than the rail system and trip lengths are shorter. Official Dutch transportation policy seeks to maintain the distinction between intercity rail service for lengthy trips and regional bus service for rural trips and for travel on small urban transit systems. In developing new transportation facilities, including highway construction, the national plan for transportation seeks to restrain further migration of city dwellers to rural communities. For the convenience of existing rural transit travelers, central government policy is designed to relate frequency of bus service to observed levels of passenger demand. Alongside the Dutch policy of extensive national transportation service has been a recognition that traffic and transportation are essential elements in regional development planning. Improved passenger transportation in rural areas has helped to preserve the rural way of life by affording access to important urban jobs and services. The lesson of the Dutch experience is that rural transportation is most effective when integrated with national transportation policy and linked to clear objectives for rural area development.