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Designing and Engineering Economic Tramways
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03 September 2026

Designing and Engineering Economic Tramways is an essential guide for professionals involved in the design, engineering, and operation of tramway (light rail) systems. Featuring lessons learned from international case studies, this book provides an in-depth exploration of design and engineering principles, economic appraisal, and patronage forecasting. It highlights the critical importance of design and engineering on the operational viability of tramway systems.
The book guides readers through each stage of the design process, from route selection and pavement engineering to the installation of tram stops in city streets. It also offers a thorough understanding of vehicle characteristics, operational needs, and maintenance methods, addressing the engineering challenges and solutions necessary for successful tramway construction. Additionally, the book explains the economic evaluation of tramways, including passenger reactions to service aspects such as operating speed, frequency, and fare levels, and it emphasises the importance of marketing and promotion to ensure stakeholder engagement and public acceptance.
Designing and Engineering Economic Tramways is a valuable reference for railway engineers, researchers, and system promoters, providing the knowledge and tools needed to deliver robust, economical, and efficient tramway infrastructure.
Professor Lewis Lesley CEng, FRSA, FICE is Technical Director at TRAM Power Ltd. He is an acknowledged expert in the field of Urban Public Transport, and has published more than 200 technical papers in refereed international journals and is author or editor of 25 books, including Light Rail Developers' Handbook. He has held posts as Public Transport Officer, Durham County Council; Professor of Transport Science, Liverpool John Moores University; and Technical Director, TRAM Power Ltd. He has acted as a consultant on projects in the UK and internationally, also been a Visiting Professor at Budapest Technical University, Delft Technical University, National University of Ireland in Maynooth, Szechenyi Istvan University, Rice University, and Leeuwarden Hogeschool.
Preface
Chapter 1. Introduction
Chapter 2. Characteristics
Chapter 3. Designing
Chapter 4. Engineering preparation
Chapter 5. Engineering delivery
Chapter 6. Economics
Chapter 7. Marketing
Chapter 8. Case studies
Chapter 9. Conclusions
References
Index