Urban passenger transport in the United States and Europe: a comparative analysis of public policies

Abstract

This two‐part article describes recent developments in urban passenger transport in the U.S.A. and Europe, focusing on the different roles and impacts of the public sector as these have varied by country and over time. The first part of the two‐part series examines public policies for roadway systems and automobile transport, whereas the second part concentrates on public transport. After a review of demand and supply trends, the article evaluates government policies in terms of public versus private ownership and operation of transport systems, public regulation, financing responsibility by government level, types and amounts of subsidy, and impacts of ownership, regulation and financing arrangements on costs and productivity. Emphasis is on comparative analysis of the current situation and emerging developments, but historical trends are reviewed as background.