Skip to Content
Streetsblog USA home
Streetsblog USA home
Log In
induced demand

Friday Video: Traffic Engineers Are Wasting Trillions

The fundamental law of road traffic is that adding lanes and parking just encourages more driving. The Global Cycling Network breaks down how it works — and what we need to do about it.

You might've heard of the law of induced demand — but have you had it explained to you in a British accent?

All kidding aside, the UK-based Global Cycling Network just put together one of the best video explainers we've seen on why countries are wasting billions of dollars on "junk roads" — and why we need to reduce motorists' lane capacity and open up space for other ways of getting around if we want to solve some of society's most pressing problems.

The first 25 minutes are perfect for those who have never really questioned the idea that more asphalt is always a good investment (e.g.: U.S. Transportation Sec. Sean Duffy, whose public comments suggest he doesn't understand why there's so much congestion in America.) But even veteran Streetsblog readers should stay tuned for a mind-blowing mini-interview with Dutch author (and SBUSA favorite) Marco te Brömmelstroet about how even the Netherlands has bought into motonormativity more than you think — and why we must question all the values that underlie our transportation choices.

Stay in touch

Sign up for our free newsletter

More from Streetsblog USA

The Sound and the Fury of Friday’s Headlines

The tales of internal combustion engines may be told by an idiot, but an EV's silence signifies nothing.

June 20, 2025

Friday Video: Public Art That Saves Pedestrian Lives

What's better than an intersection designed for walking safety? A beautiful intersection designed for walking safety.

June 20, 2025

Talking Headways Podcast: Small Scale Manufacturing in Cities

It's clean, It's quiet, and it's really cool to walk by and see things being made.

June 20, 2025

As ICE Continues Assault on Vulnerable Workers, Groups Launch Fundraiser to Assist Street Vendors

Empty streets and fears of being disappeared off street corners are hurting vendors' ability to stay afloat.

June 19, 2025

Black Cycling Clubs: ‘We Just Want a Safe Place to Park Our Bikes’

Leaving a bike on the sidewalk overnight or while at work often results in a missing tire or gearset, but for most of us, it’s only a matter of time until the entire frame disappears. 

June 19, 2025

Are Thursday’s Headlines the Chicken or the Egg?

Americans love their cars, but most also don't have access to quality transit. Which is the cause, and which is the effect?

June 19, 2025
See all posts