Multi-criteria assessment and ranking framework for the potential of cargo cycle operation: Using New York city as an example

Making deliveries in crowded urban areas can be challenging for commercial vehicles, producing additional negative externalities. In recent years, cargo cycles, including bicycles and tricycles, either man-powered or electric-powered, are considered as a promising alternative for making last leg delivery. However, research on this mode is largely lacking. This research proposes a multi-criteria assessment framework to evaluate the potential index of implementing cargo cycles, using New York City (NYC) as an example. The new framework integrates consideration of both the supply and the demand sides. Cargo cycle network density, linkage ratio, circuitry, and topography are all considered. The paper also redefines accessibility and incorporates land-use patterns and freight demand factors into the assessment for the first time. A multi-criteria ranking process is developed to derive road network potential by considering all dimensions of measurements. The results from this work show the ideal places for cargo cycle operations, and can be used to guide the planning of cargo cycle system implementation, promoting sustainable freight transportation in metropolitan areas.