ABSTRACT
The third general approach to implementing travel demand management (TDM) is through regulation. Regulatory TDM actions can be quite effective. Public reaction to regulation is not always enthusiastic. Voluntary and market-based approaches are capable of inspiring political opposition as well. Pricing may invoke even more significant public opposition than does regulation. Regulation nonetheless may have more profound effects on ordinary human lives and business concerns. The secret to making regulation politically palatable is simple. One merely has to hide the main effects from public view. This is especially true if large numbers of voters or influential political rundraisers are likely to be affected in any serious manner. The regulation of transportation systems takes many different forms. Regulated activities traditionally look inward for solutions to problems and remedies for undesired external effects. Regulatory mechanisms are generally geographically based. Options include local, regional, state, and federal rules and regulations.
