Workers who have returned to in-person jobs are still experiencing less traffic congestion than in 2019.
Writing in Axios, Nick Halter and Alex Fitzpatrick note that commuters in the Twin Cities are still seeing lower commute times than in 2019, signaling a benefit of remote work and other adjustments for all workers.
The data is reflected in traffic, too: “In 2019, 24.4% of the metro freeway system was congested; in 2022 that number was only 13.7%, according to a MnDOT report.”
According to the article, “Another state report found that just a 4% drop in vehicle miles traveled during peak times can cause a 35% decrease in congestion. In other words, just a small number of remote workers staying home during rush hour has a big impact.”
FULL STORY: Commuting is still quicker for most workers in the Twin Cities
From 9-to-5 to Anytime: How Telecommuting Changes the Traffic Game
Not all cities have benefited equally from congestion relief brought on by shifting commuting patterns.
Congestion Growing in Sunbelt Cities
Cities with rapidly growing populations and inadequate public transit systems are seeing more gridlock despite changes in commuting patterns and the rise of remote work.
Charlotte’s Changing Commute Patterns
With more people working from home since the pandemic, the area is seeing shorter commute times for cars and public transit.
Maui's Vacation Rental Debate Turns Ugly
Verbal attacks, misinformation campaigns and fistfights plague a high-stakes debate to convert thousands of vacation rentals into long-term housing.
Planetizen Federal Action Tracker
A weekly monitor of how Trump’s orders and actions are impacting planners and planning in America.
San Francisco Suspends Traffic Calming Amidst Record Deaths
Citing “a challenging fiscal landscape,” the city will cease the program on the heels of 42 traffic deaths, including 24 pedestrians.
Cleveland to Boost Bike Safety With New Bike Lanes, School Programs
The program, using curriculum created by Cleveland Bikes, is part of a broader effort to improve safety along school routes.
Florida Home Insurers Disproportionately Dropping Low-Income Households
Non-renewal rates are highest in inland counties, not the coastal areas most immediately vulnerable to storms.
Half of Post-Fire Altadena Home Sales Were to Corporations
Large investors are quietly buying up dozens of properties in Altadena, California, where a devastating wildfire destroyed more than 6,000 homes in January.
Urban Design for Planners 1: Software Tools
This six-course series explores essential urban design concepts using open source software and equips planners with the tools they need to participate fully in the urban design process.
Planning for Universal Design
Learn the tools for implementing Universal Design in planning regulations.
Gallatin County Department of Planning & Community Development
Heyer Gruel & Associates PA
JM Goldson LLC
City of Camden Redevelopment Agency
City of Astoria
Transportation Research & Education Center (TREC) at Portland State University
Jefferson Parish Government
Camden Redevelopment Agency
City of Claremont