The immediate impact of gasoline shortages on urban travel behavior

Abstract

In response to the gasoline shortage of 1974, a small-scale home interview survey was conducted in an attempt to identify and define (1) changes in the price elasticity of demand for gasoline, (2) procedures for characterizing gasoline supply in travel behavior models, and (3) key implications for the development of transportation and urban design policies. The survey, conducted in the northern suburbs of Chicago among households with a high level of automobile ownership, used a questionnaire designed to measure changes in travel behavior, attitudes, and perceptions as a result of the increased price and decreased availability of gasoline. Analysis showed that price was not an important consideration in automobile use while the supply of gasoline was constrained. Use of public transportation was the least common trip-making decision, while combining trips was most common. There was a significant reduction in non-work trips during the shortage. No change in the desired location of home or work was found. This study suggests that only an artificially constrained supply of gasoline, rather than modest increases in price, seems a promising control for consumption. Policy implications for urban planners and publc officials center around educating the public about more energy-efficient modes and providing incentives tomore » encourage their use. (GRA)« less

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