Network Congestion, Braess Paradox and Urban Expressway System

Abstract

Some paradoxes, such as 'The Braess Paradox,' persist in transportation networks. This paper studies the congestion properties in networks constituted by a set of circular and diffusive expressways. We use a model with a single origin/multiple destination (E-net) to depict the evening rush hour, and one destination/multiple origin (M-net) to depict the morning rush hour. Some conditions for efficient equilibrium in such model are obtained. Policy recommendations such as capacity constraints/increases of key roads and differential parking charges are given.

Keywords: Network Congestion, Braess’ paradox, First-In-First-Out

JEL Classification: C61