Variations in value of travel time savings on express lanes: Evidence from passively collected data

Abstract

This paper investigates preference heterogeneity in the Value of Travel Time Savings (VTTS) among Express Lane (EL) users, highlighting how VTTS varies across individuals. The study contributes to the literature by demonstrating how travel demand modeling can be effectively conducted using a large, high-resolution dataset that integrates transponder-based Express Lane usage with travel time savings derived from probe vehicle data. VTTS is estimated through a trip generation model, where the dependent variable is trip frequency.

To address the absence of user-specific socio-demographic characteristics and to capture the full spectrum of preference heterogeneity, the study employs three advanced ordered logit models: the generalized ordered logit (GOL), the heteroskedastic ordered logit (HOL), and the latent class ordered logit (LCOL). Results reveal substantial heterogeneity in user preferences. Notably, infrequent Express Lane users demonstrate a higher willingness to pay for time savings compared to regular commuters, suggesting that EL usage patterns reflect deeper differences in value perception.

By identifying nuanced user segments and their evolving preferences, this study offers actionable insights for transportation agencies, planners, toll operators, and policymakers. The findings support the development of dynamic tolling and incentive-based strategies that are responsive to user diversity.