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

Why Some Congresspeople Want to Go Big on Greenways

A new bill would multiply federal funding for walking and biking paths — even as some powerful congresspeople threaten to take away what we've already got.

March 18, 2026

Wednesday’s Headlines Would Walk if We Could

It would be nice if the Trump administration would let us.

March 18, 2026

Opinion: The Federal Railroad Administration’s Proposed Amtrak Restructuring is Worth Considering

The federal push to overhaul Amtrak operations is promising, but it must be done with care

March 18, 2026

Why Transit Advocates Aren’t 100% Behind This Senator’s Bold Bill To Slash Highway Funding

A new Republican bill could bring rampant highway overspending to a halt and slash emissions by one-fifth. But don't get too excited because it would hurt transit, too.

March 17, 2026

Tuesday’s Headlines Are Underwater

More and more people can't afford their car payments or associated costs — which wouldn't be as big of a problem if they had a choice other than driving.

March 17, 2026

Opinion: The Hidden Costs of Free Transportation

How charging for infrastructure creates better mobility options for everyone.

March 17, 2026
See all posts