VPP Projects Not Involving Tolls
Category: Projects that Make Auto Use Costs Variable

Project - WASHINGTON: Global Positioning System (GPS) Based Pricing in the Puget Sound Region

In this pilot, meters were placed in the vehicles of voluntary participants. Different prices per mile were imposed depending upon the location and time of travel. Drivers were made aware of the pricing both though maps and other printed material, as well as a real-time read-out on the in-vehicle meter. By relying on in-vehicle meters, the need for expensive wayside antennae is eliminated, and even arterial roads can be priced cost-effectively. At the start of the pilot, participants received a billing account with a positive cash balance. Any cumulative in-vehicle meter charges were debited against this balance. Any funds remaining in the account at the end of the pilot were kept by the participants. This "hold-harmless" study design gave participants the opportunity to participate without committing their own funds, yet also gave them the incentive to adjust their driving behavior so as to enjoy the surplus remaining in the account at the end of the experiment.

Pre-Implementation Funds Awarded

2002

Implementation Funds Awarded

2005

Study Completed

The Puget Sound Regional Council released the final report in April 2008. The report can be obtained at http://www.psrc.org/projects/trafficchoices/reports.htm. There was also a recent Seattle Times article on the project that can be obtained at
http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/localnews/2004369904_tolls24m.html

For More Information Contact

Matthew Kitchen
Puget Sound Regional Council
1011 Western Avenue Suite 500
Seattle, Washington 98104-1035
Phone: (206) 464-6196
E-mail: mkitchen@psrc.org

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