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Abstract

Time-varying tolls can be used to manage traffic on congested networks by charging at peak times to encourage travellers to retime their journeys. Observations of the London congestion charging zone show that shortly before the end of the charging period, when the charge ceases abruptly, some drivers wait just outside the charging zone to avoid paying. This shows that the time they spend waiting is worth less to them than the charge. Analysis of a dynamic equilibrium model of departure time choice shows that equilibrium is not possible when tolls cease rapidly. This raises two issues that will be explored in the presentation: First, how can tolls be used to manage traffic flows effectively; Second, what models of choice are relevant when, as in this case, an equilibrium is not possible.

Speaker

Benjamin Heydecker is professor of transport studies at the CTS, UCL. He has a background in mathematics, which he applies to analyse transport systems. His research interests include dynamic analysis and the properties of equilibria, and he is currently researching the opportunities for ICT for management of road and rail traffic.

Please contact Professor Benjamin Heydecker for a copy of this presentation.