Published in Transportation Research Part A
Jerusalem Congestion Pricing Study
How could congestion charges and parking policy change travel in Jerusalem? We built and validated a MATSim model to test the trade-offs before implementation. One study scenario reduced car arrivals by 25% with an approximately €10 daily charge.
Follow the storyThe question
Can pricing reduce congestion without weakening public transport?
New mobility services can attract passengers away from buses as well as private cars. The study tested how shared automated vehicles, congestion charges and parking prices interact across Jerusalem's transport network.
In our study, we established and validated a multimodal agent-based simulation of Jerusalem using MATSim, investigating how congestion charges and parking pricing can significantly impact traffic flow within the city center.
The approach / 01
We represented travelers and their daily journeys in MATSim. Each simulated traveler can adapt their route and transport mode as costs and network conditions change, allowing policies to be compared within the same transport system.
The approach / 02
We compared shared automated vehicle services, congestion charging and parking pricing, both separately and in combination. The model makes it possible to examine the trade-offs before a policy is introduced.
The approach / 03
Our model showed that introducing Shared Automated Cars alone (the "carrot") could divert people from Public Transport. Adding a "stick" like congestion/parking pricing, however, creates a balanced use of both.
The approach / 04
Interestingly, easing traffic in congestion-charged areas can paradoxically attract more private cars.
The evidence
See It in Action
I have created a video simulation to visually represent the model (Via by Simunto).
Why It Matters
From evidence to a decision.
In the modeled scenario, a daily charge of approximately €10 reduced car arrivals by 25%. This is a simulation result, not an observed change following implementation. Combined congestion and parking pricing also discouraged trips within the city.
The policy package matters more than any single measure. Planners can use the model to compare effects on car use and public transport, including unintended responses, before choosing a pricing strategy.
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