American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) Practice Exam

Transportation Systems Management (TSM) includes all of the following EXCEPT?

1. Carpooling and vanpooling incentives

2. Major new transportation facilities

3. Improved transit service

4. Staggered work schedules

The correct answer is: Major new transportation facilities

Transportation Systems Management (TSM) focuses on optimizing and improving the efficiency of existing transportation systems rather than building new infrastructure. The approach to TSM emphasizes the use of strategies that enhance the efficiency of the current transportation network, often including programs that make better use of existing facilities. Carpooling and vanpooling incentives, improved transit services, and staggered work schedules are all strategies aimed at maximizing the effectiveness of the transportation system by encouraging more efficient use of vehicles, reducing peak demand, and promoting alternative travel options. These methods can lead to decreased congestion, improved air quality, and more reliable travel times. In contrast, major new transportation facilities involve significant infrastructure development such as building new roads, bridges, or transit lines. These projects typically fall outside the scope of TSM, as they do not focus on managing or improving existing systems but rather on expanding capacity through new construction. TSM strategies are more about interventions and adjustments to current systems rather than substantial new investments.