Austin has a giant traffic tangle on its hands. And because the city largely ignored the growing problem for years, transportation planning experts believe only drastic changes in behavior and lifestyle will ease the snarl.
Like many of Texas's large cities, Austin has experienced a steep growth trajectory for decades. Unfortunately, it's investment in infrastructure has not kept pace.
"While Austin fiddled decade after decade, Dallas was busy building the largest light rail system in the country," observes Wade Goodwyn. "Thirty years later, the Texas city with the conservative reputation has the regional mass transit network, not Austin. Austin has done practically nothing in that regard."
A toll road built to the east of the city failed to ease the problem. "So now, the state is considering tolling Interstate 35 and making the toll road free — as well as building a light-rail system and putting in more bike lanes."
"But [transportation planning expert Tim] Lomax says his computer models show the only real solution is going to involve changes in behavior and lifestyle."
FULL STORY: Even An 85 MPH Highway Can't Fix Austin's Traffic Tangle
Vetoed State Bike Safety Law Passes in Austin
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Study: Bike Lanes Improve Road Safety
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Seattle Legalizes Co-Living
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NYC Officials Announce Broadway Pedestrianization Project
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Denver's New High-Rise Integrates Vertical Canyon in Architectural Design
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Central Ohio Leaders Form Regional Housing Partnership
A new coalition will seek to address growing housing needs and improve affordability by supporting new housing development across the region.
California E-Bike Rebate Program Launches — Again
After a series of fits and starts, CARB says the program will begin accepting applications this month.
Analysis: Localized Upzoning Less Effective
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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.
Caltrans
Heyer Gruel & Associates PA
Caltrans
American Planning Association, Sustainable Communities Division
HUDs Office of Policy Development and Research
HUDs Office of Policy Development and Research
City of Cambridge, Maryland
Newport County Development Council: Connect Greater Newport
Rockdale County Board of Commissioners