What is the best public transport system? An instrument to compare urban public transport systems using transportational, environmental and social criteria

摘要

Plans to improve urban public transport systems are currently developed in many urban areas in the Netherlands by local authorities. Until now these projects are financed largely by the national government. Several public transport systems (eg. busway, light rail) can possibly contribute to the solution of existing problems. These systems may have very different costs and benefits, and every local situation can have different characteristics. To facilitate and improve the proces of decisionmaking, an instrument has been developed which makes it possible to compare alternative solutions for specific projects. Results of studies applying this instrument are presented.