Spatial differentiations of traffic satisfaction and its policy implications in Beijing

Deterioration of the urban traffic environment is one of the main external effects brought by the agglomeration of population and industry in metropolitan areas. The effect is accompanied not only by reduced efficiency of transportation systems, environmental problems, public health and safety problems, but also by severe social inequity. This paper presents an empirical analysis of the traffic problems in Beijing. With a large-scale survey data of the residents’ degree of satisfaction with the traffic environment, spatial differentiations were identified across space and social groups. The results of analysis revealed that Beijing's traffic problems are closely linked with land-use planning and public policies; therefore, it is necessary to adjust urban planning in order to realize sustainable urban transport, and the incorporation of social policies for vulnerable social groups living in remote suburban areas is critical. In addition, specific engineering and technical solutions suitable for multi-modal structure, including a combination of public transportation, cars, and bicycles, should be emphasized in the future.