Perceptions of congestion charging: Lessons for U.S. cities from London and Stockholm

The U.S. Department of Transportation is proposing a new strategy to improve mobility: congestion charging. The goal of this study is to analyze factors influencing public approval of congestion charging. Surveys in London and Stockholm, where congestion charging has been successfully introduced, evaluated the perceived effects of congestion charging on traffic, the environment, and public transport. Additional surveys in Atlanta, Washington DC, and New York City illustrated awareness and support of congestion charging in U.S. cities. Data analysis revealed that respondents who were familiar with congestion charging, who trusted the reported benefits, or who often used transportation modes other than cars were more likely to express support. U.S. cities should promote the environmental benefits of congestion charging, improve public transit accessibility, and have a clear plan for revenue spending to increase public approval.