Travel Demand Management

Travel demand management means influencing how, when, where and whether people travel so that urban transport works more efficiently. Rather than only building more road capacity, travel demand management (TDM) seeks to reduce avoidable travel, especially private motor-vehicle trips, and shift journeys towards more efficient modes, times or routes.

How demand management works

The focus is on moving people, not merely vehicles. Demand management changes travel choices through better alternatives, incentives, pricing and regulation.

• A modal shift towards public transport, walking and cycling can accommodate journeys with less road space per traveller.
• Staggered working hours can shift some journeys away from peak periods rather than eliminate them.
• Locating housing, employment and services closer together can shorten journeys and reduce dependence on motorised travel.

Main measures

• Parking management, including appropriate charges and limits on parking availability, can discourage excessive private-vehicle use.
• Congestion pricing charges vehicles for using congested roads or areas, encouraging travellers to reconsider their mode, route or travel time.
• Reliable public transport, safe footpaths and cycling facilities make alternatives to private vehicles practical.
• Carpooling and employer-supported shared transport can reduce the number of vehicles needed for a given number of travellers.

Role in urban transport planning

TDM complements infrastructure investment; it does not replace the need for adequate transport services. Its objectives include reducing congestion, pollution and energy use while improving accessibility, meaning people's ability to reach jobs, services and other destinations.

• Pricing and restrictions should be supported by affordable alternatives so that people with fewer transport choices are not unfairly burdened.
• Integrating land-use and transport planning helps address the travel demand generated by urban development.