Assessing the Potential of Congestion Pricing in Small Cities: A Case Study of Niš, Serbia

Abstract

As increasing urbanization continues to stimulate the growth of motorization rates, many cities facing traffic congestion are confronted with the challenge of selecting the most effective mobility management strategy. Although changing travel behavior is a complex process, numerous studies highlight the importance of transport policies in addressing traffic-related problems. One such policy, whose positive effects have contributed to reducing the number of private cars in the central areas of many cities, is known as congestion charging. However, the question remains to what extent the principles of congestion charging can be adapted to the local context of less developed urban areas while simultaneously encouraging changes in users’ travel behavior. Considering the above, the aim of this research is to analyze the factors influencing changes in travel behavior in the case of a hypothetical introduction of congestion charging within the central zone of the City of Niš (Serbia). The research results indicate the pricing policy that has the greatest impact on reducing users’ willingness to use private cars, thus providing a basis for decision-makers in developing strategies for reducing traffic congestion.