Methods in socio-economic appraisal of rail infrastructure projects

The study considers the possibilties for improved rail infrastructure investment planning through the development of more comprehensive evaluation methods. In the study the effects of rail projects are systematised according to nature (direct or indirect, strategic or non-strategic) and to incidence group (operators, infrastructure provider, travellers, local surroundings, regional or global environment, and regional and national society). On this basis evaluations can take place and decisions between alternatives can be made. In the specific methodology developed within the study, cost-benefit and multi-criteria analysis technigues are integrated, and the importance of testing the sensitivity of a given choice is stressed. Special emphasis is paid to the and valuation of travel time savings.