OTREC-TT-480

How can public entities make sustainable transportation decisions? After providing a context for transportation evaluation, this report outlines a three-part process: framework, measurement, and decision-making. Various methods for aggregating measurements are summarized: benefit-cost analysis (BCA), least-cost planning (LCP), multi-attribute utility analysis (MUA), etc. The authors recommend a pragmatic triple-bottom-line TBL framework based on a set of general principles: (1) Reflect values, goals and objectives; (2) Quantify direct costs and benefits; (3) Identify other major costs and benefits; (4) Identify who benefits and who pays; (5) Develop rough estimates, but highlight uncertainties; (6) Help policymakers to balance priorities; (7) Integrate TBL methods into decision-making; and (8) Monitor outcomes. The report concludes that TBL is a good framework for evaluating transportation investments and should be incorporated into all phases of decision-making.