Clearing away congestion for a brighter tomorrow

A recent study released by Streetlight Data confirms what most commuters know: the break from the brakes is over. One of the unexpected benefits of the pandemic was an increase in the number of people who worked from home, resulting in fewer vehicles on the road. 

But, as more people return to the office full-time, congestion is one again on the rise. The research shows that traffic congestion is greater today than in 2019 in all but six of the top 100 most populous metropolitan areas in the U.S. The number of vehicle miles traveled per capita was 12% higher in May 2024 compared with the same month in 2019.

Congestion creates inflation. The more time we spend waiting in traffic, the more fuel we use. That also means it’s more expensive to drive and move freight, as there’s more demand placed on oil. Perhaps the most important cost of congestion is time. The more time we sit in traffic, the less we have to spend with our loved ones. This cost is simply too high, and it’s something that we must address.

The Federal Infrastructure package known as the Infrastructure, Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) was passed four years ago and provided unprecedented levels of funding for our nation’s infrastructure. Next year, Congress will look to reauthorize that legislation. But, we know that building roads alone won’t solve congestion. It can only be remedied, as proven by the pandemic, through a mix of fewer cars on the road, a transportation system that operates properly and providing commuters with transit options. 

There are various strategies to reduce congestion, such as better land use, technology, pricing and expanding transit choices. However, one of the most cost-effective and straightforward approaches is often overlooked: incentivizing mode shift. Encouraging people to change their mode of transportation is both highly effective and affordable. Carma Technology Corporation will soon release its recommendations on cost-effective ways Congress can provide state, regional and local governments with the tools needed to reduce congestion.

 By implementing these strategies and embracing innovative solutions, we aim to transform our transportation landscape, alleviating congestion and paving the way for more efficient, sustainable, and livable communities across America.