Civil Engineering Reference
In-Depth Information
Chapter 13
The Costs and Other Consequences
of Traf
c Congestion
13.1 Introduction
In an increasingly fast paced and globally oriented economy, the ef
cient move-
ment of persons and goods is a competitive necessity [
1
]. Traf
c congestion
adversely impacts quality of life and economic productivity in metropolitan areas.
It
increases fuel consumption,
the cost of traveler and freight movement,
the
number of crashes, and tailpipe pollutants harmful to human health.
This chapter sets forth the broad consequences of traf
c congestion on these
issues of concern.
13.1.1 Congestion Impacts on Travelers
Traf
especially for those who live in large
urban areas and have long commutes. It increases mental stress and disrupts peo-
ples
c congestion is a growing concern
—
daily schedules: drivers in congested roads have been reported to experience
more stress and aggression. The dissatisfaction with the daily commute has been
found to produce undesirable psychological and physiological responses, including
elevated blood pressure, increased negative mood states, lowered tolerance for
frustration, increased irritability, and more impatient driving behavior [
2
'
4
].
Congestion disrupts the daily schedules of business and family activities. Reg-
ular commuters who avoid being late for work leave early and often miss breakfast
with their children or spouses; in their return trip home if caught in congestion they
can miss having dinner with the family, or a child performance at school.
The impact of personal time lost in congestion includes not only the stress and
disruption to family life, but perhaps even more also important it includes the
opportunity cost of that lost time. For employers it could be the loss in productivity
from employees who report late for work.
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