Austin is a booming city and known for its world-class barbecue, friendly locals, and warm weather. However, the influx of new residents has brought with it an unfortunate side effect: traffic congestion.
If you’ve ever been in traffic in Austin, you know that the experience can be debilitating. It’s no secret that Austin is one of the most traffic-dense cities in America. It’s not unusual to spend a day or two stuck in a traffic jam.
That said, it’s important to note that not all traffic is bad. In fact, some areas in Austin have been designed to be safer for all road users.
Some of these improvements include street markings, high visibility signage, plastic delineators that highlight specific roadway features, and traffic signal timing changes. The city is working with organizations like Vision Zero to continue these efforts, and make Austin roads safer for everyone.
Aside from road safety, reducing commute times can help alleviate the burden on drivers. By allowing workers and students to work at home, shopping online to reduce retail trips, and carpooling or taking public transportation, Austin can cut down on the amount of time it takes to get around the city.
The best way to avoid traffic is to be a smart driver. Be sure to follow the speed limit, use a cell phone only when necessary, and be aware of school zones, construction zones, and parking lots.
When driving in Austin, remember that a 30-minute trip adds about 34 minutes of travel time due to traffic delays. That’s 83 hours of extra travel time per year, according to a study from TomTom. Plus, rain, sleet, accidents, and construction can all add to the total.
