Client: Ministry of Transport, Public Works and Water Management
Period: March 2005 – ongoing

The Government of The Netherlands intends to implement a road user charging scheme whereby all road users are charged a fee. The fee depends on where and when users make use of the road network, and the level of congestion. The objective of the scheme is to mitigate congestion by making the user more aware of the cost of using the road network and to give incentives either to use public transport or not to use the road network during rush hours. On average the cost impact to the user is to be neutral through the abolishment of taxes on car ownership and the taxes on the purchase of a car.

The Government of The Netherlands has made the decision to implement a meaningful, irreversible first step towards a nation wide road user charging scheme during this cabinet period. Parallel to implementation of such a first step towards a nationwide scheme the Ministry of Transport, Public Works and Water Management envisages the introduction of pilot projects whereby the proceeds of the road user charges are earmarked for funding of these projects.

ECORYS is seconded since March 2005 to:

• Support and manage the feasibility studies of the possible pilot projects, including but not limited to:
  - Expansion of the Coentunnel (project value € 1,2 billion);
  - Extension of the A15 near Arnhem (project value € 700 – 800 million);
  - Reconstruction of the A2 from Maasbracht to Geleen (project value € 200 – 800 million);
  - Construction of a tunnelled road connection between Amsterdam and Almere (project value € 4,5 billion);
• Assistance in implementing the former mentioned  toll projects; 
• Provide in-house expert advice and administrative support in the preparation of the first implementation step of a nationwide road user charging scheme.