Can Transportation Pricing Strategies Be Used for Reducing Emissions?
California air quality has improved over the past decades, yet our various ambient air quality standards are frequently violated. Additional mobile source emission reductions are needed before ambient air quality standards can be consistently attained. Several of California’s regional air quality plans have included transportation pricing strategies (fees, charges, taxes) as an option to be explored to reduce vehicle usage. This study was undertaken to determine the feasibility of using these strategies. The investigators surveyed the literature, analyzed data, and modeled alternatives to determine the effectiveness of pricing in reducing traffic congestion, air pollution, and fuel use. This study was performed by Deakin, Harvey, Skabardonis, Inc.
