Travel demand management: strategies and outcomes

Travel demand management (TDM) is being implemented in numerous different ways throughout the world, to address congestions issues and encourage modal shift. This research outlines some of the many TDM strategies being used internationally to provide insights of potential value for the New Zealand context. This information is presented through six city case studies and 10 focus areas. The cities (Amsterdam, London, Singapore, Sydney, Seattle and Vancouver) were chosen to provide variety in approach. The focus areas analyse specific approaches to TDM through investigations of initiatives. The research identified seven critical insights: clearly defined and communicated TDM goals are important; the term TDM is used inconsistently; integration and prioritisation of TDM principles in wider policy maximises effectiveness; reliable alternative transport infrastructure and services are needed for modal shift; there are no TDM ‘silver bullets’; major events or construction projects create opportunities to trial TDM strategies; persuasive technologies have benefits and challenges; and TDM policies need to account for emerging mobility trends and services. Rapid technological changes are providing opportunities and complexities for TDM strategies and areas of future study include issues of equity and accessibility, and the potential of future mobility technologies and choices. The report can be downloaded from the New Zealand Transport Agency at https://www.nzta.govt.nz/assets/resources/research/reports/661/661-travel-demand-management-strategies-and-outcomes.pdf