Financing Transportation Networks by David M. Levinson

From the Publisher

"Pollution, alternative fuels, congestion, intelligent transport systems, and the shift from construction to maintenance all call for a reconsideration of the existing highway revenue mechanisms, in particular the gas tax. David Levinson explores the fundamental theoretical basis of highway finance, in particular the use of tolls, and supports that theory with empirical evidence. The author examines highway finance from the perspective of individual jurisdictions and travellers, and considers their interactions, rather than specifying a single optimal solution. Congestion pricing has long been a goal of transportation economists, who believe it will result in a more efficient use of resources. Levinson argues that if the governance were to become more decentralized, and collection costs continue to drop, tolls could return to prominence as the preferred means of financing roads for both local and intercity travel. An approach that creates the local winners necessary to implement road pricing is required before it can be expected to become widespread." Economists, civil engineers, planners, students and policymakers will find this detailed examination of transportation networks enlightening and useful.

Booknews

Noting that automotive freeways are hardly "free" in terms of financial cost, Levinson (civil engineering, U. of Minnesota) argues that the issue of who gets to use the roads without paying the full cost is critical for understanding the choice of highway finance mechanism. He explores the reasons that different governmental bodies choose different means of financing and examines the different choices available to planners, focusing specifically on areas of decentralized, local control and multiple jurisdictions. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)

Product Details

• Table of Contents

Table of Contents