A review of issues in transit economics

Abstract

This paper reviews the development of thought on the major issues in transit economics over the last 50 years, in developed and developing countries. Some issues - the analysis of cost and demand parameters - are perennial, with development mostly in the mathematical sophistication of analytical techniques employed, while others - such as issues of ownership and competitive form - reflect wider trends in economic thinking. Some issues - such as the relationship between transit and development - are universal, while others - such as the role of small vehicles and the informal sector - impact mostly on developing countries. One conclusion stands out. Transit is critical to the achievement of a wide range of social, economic and environmental objectives and, therefore, needs appropriate institutions to ensure its integration with the strategic management of the rest of urban development policy.Transit Public transport Policy objectives Costs Demand Regulatory reform