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

Friday’s Headlines Back the Bikes

Setting aside the fact that bike lanes don't make traffic worse, resisting bikelash on busy roads is essential to creating a useable network.

April 18, 2025

Does Driver’s Ed Really Make Roads Safer? 

States like Georgia are taking a critical look at their drivers education programs — but some say the whole concept of driver's ed deserves scrutiny.

April 18, 2025

Friday Video: Ken Jennings Has a Web Series About Transit!

Jeopardy's host and most famous player is a big fan of the bus — and he's helping educate his fellow Washingtonians about why they should be, too.

April 18, 2025

Talking Headways Podcast: The Pacific Circuit

Alexis Madrigal connects containerization to globalization and its direct impacts on one Oakland neighborhood.

April 17, 2025

Thursday’s Headlines Wonder Why

Why are drivers killing so many pedestrians? Governing magazine has a number of familiar theories.

April 17, 2025
See all posts