Alison J Conway

Policy Options for Truck User Charging

This paper provides a review of truck road user charging mechanisms employed worldwide. The purpose of this study is to identify the variables currently considered in determining user charge rates for heavy trucks within different tolling structures and to examine the relationship of these variables to policy goals.

Analysis and Cost-Recovery Optimization Methodology for a Fixed-Class Truck Tolling Structure

The purpose of this study is to develop a methodology for examining existing class-based toll structures for “fairness” between different commercial truck classes and for optimizing toll rates within each class to fully recover the total cost of pavement consumed by trucks. A theoretical methodology for setting toll rates to optimize cost recovery within a given class and achieve fairness between classes is defined. Methods for analyzing existing toll rate structures using weigh-in-motion (WIM) data in the absence of full vehicle identification information are also described. A case study of Texas State Highway 130 demonstrates the usefulness of WIM data for analysis of a toll classification system based on number of axles.