Citation

Chang CW, Feng CM. IATSS Res. 2007; 31(2): 34-41.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2007, International Association of Traffic and Safety Sciences, Publisher Elsevier Publishing)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

This paper provides an historical summary of the motorization trends in Taiwan between 1992 and 2007, including the development of the country’s highway system. Authors note that, during this time period, the region has experienced a rapid increase in traffic congestion, energy consumption, and, consequentially, environmental pollution. A number of public policy issues concerning these factors are discussed, with recommendations for specific changes provided. The first such recommendation is to call into question any increase in regional highways. As 90 percent of the population in the most populous regions of the island has access to highways within 30 minutes, the authors are doubtful as to whether new highways will increase access in lieu of promoting sustainable growth. Recommendations and analyses are also provide for issues such as maintenance through a Maintenance Management System, the construction of highways in rural areas, the incorporation of Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) for highways, and the improvement of ecologically-sound highway development.