The Accuracy of Ex-Ante Cost-Benefit Analysis - Evidence from the Norwegian Road Sector

Cost-benefit analyses (CBA) are conducted in the road sectors to provide decision-makers with information regarding the economic viability of projects. CBAs are often performed ex-ante, before the decision to build. They are a prediction of what will occur if projects are implemented. A question readily asked is: do such analyses meet real outturns? The transportation literature has not addressed this question extensively. Addressing it would reveal the extent to which decision-makers' objectives are being met and give input that can improve CBA as a proper decision-making tool.