Measure Selection

Measure selection is the process of identifying the most suitable and cost effective mobility and transport measures to achieve the vision and objectives of a Sustainable Urban Mobility Plan (SUMP) and to overcome the identified local problems. Even where vision, objectives and problems are defined, it may not be obvious what measures are most appropriate.

A wide range of measures are available, such as modifying development to reduce travel demands, providing new public transport services, managing networks differently, measures on behavioural change, building new infrastructure (footways, cycleway, rail and tram lines, and roads), or charging for use of the transport system. Nevertheless, it can be difficult to identify the most appropriate.

Stakeholders and politicians, and sometimes citizens, will have preconceived ideas as to what should be done. Moreover the most appropriate measures may not be the most easily implementable. For instance, split responsibilities, and lack of funding can limit what measures can be implemented.

A SUMP is likely to draw on several measures, but the SUMP’s performance, and implementability, will depend on how these measures are packaged. A SUMP needs to be more than a wish-list of measures. Prior to implementation each measure needs to be defined in detail, assessed in terms of its likely impact, and appraised in terms of its potential contribution.

Are you curious to know more about how to select the most effective packages of measures for SUMPs? Further information can be found in the Measure Selection Kit and the various SUMP knowledge resources CH4LLENGE produced!