Traffic Congestion in Florida: Trends and Solutions

摘要

The access provided by Floridas transportation system is a critical component in the quality of life for the states 15.2 million residents and its visitors. Whether traveling to work, shopping, education or social purposes, Floridians value the ability to reach their destinations in a timely fashion. Yet the continued increase in traffic congestion in the states largest urban areas represents a growing challenge to Floridas transportation system, impacting the livability of these communities. This report documents travel trends and levels of congestion in Floridas largest urban areas. The study concludes with a comprehensive set of strategies to relieve traffic congestion. The major findings of the study are: Population growth in Florida has resulted in significant increases in usage of the states roads and highways, which provides the vast majority of travel within the state. Three urban regions in Florida Orlando, West Palm Beach and Jacksonville -- rank among the 10 areas nationally with the largest increase in vehicle travel during the last five years. The ten areas in order are Las Vegas, Charlotte, Dallas Fort Worth, Orlando, Atlanta, West Palm Beach, Jacksonville, Houston, Raleigh and Nashville. From 1993 to 1998, road and highway travel increased by 31 percent in the Orlando area, by 25 percent in the West Palm Beach area and by 24 percent in the Jacksonville area. Highway travel in Florida has increased by 63 percent since 1985 from 88 billion miles to 144 billion miles. Highway travel in Florida is projected to increase by another 35 percent by the year 2015. Floridas population has increased by 35 percent since 1985 from 11.3 million people to 15.2 million people. Floridas population is projected to increase by another 22 percent by the year 2015 to 18.5 million people. The increase in population over the next 15 years is expected to increase the number of licensed drivers in the state by 2.7 million, from 12.7 million today to 15.4 million in 2015.