Measuring success of transport infrastructure projects

Transport infrastructure projects have traditionally been evaluated using financial performance metrics and adherence to project schedules; however, recent research emphasizes the importance of adopting a multidimensional framework that incorporates economic, social, environmental, and technological considerations. Success in such projects now demands balancing value-for-money, return on investment (ROI), and long-term financial sustainability with broader societal objectives such as accessibility, equity, and inclusivity. Environmental sustainability, including reducing carbon footprints, enhancing resource efficiency, and promoting sustainable practices, has become a critical determinant of project outcomes. Additionally, technical performance indicators, such as reliability, safety, service quality, and user satisfaction, provide essential insights into operational effectiveness and public acceptance. To meet these evolving demands, policymakers and project managers must adopt integrated strategies that align infrastructure development with stakeholder expectations while addressing global challenges like climate change, urbanization, and resource scarcity. However, significant gaps remain, including the absence of standardized evaluation metrics and the limited incorporation of ex-ante assessments in project design, which hinder the ability to holistically assess success. Addressing these issues is crucial to advancing infrastructure solutions that foster sustained economic growth, enhance social well-being, and uphold environmental stewardship, thereby ensuring the long-term resilience and effectiveness of transport infrastructure projects.