Breaking News: Traffic is bad

To everyone who drives in and around Boston, this is not news. But new data released by the state has confirmed what we all know, traffic congestion is bad and it’s only getting worse.

According to a new report by the Massachusetts Department of Transportation, since 2013, traffic congestion on Massachusetts roads has gotten worse and we are now at a point where it’s reducing access to jobs. Yikes.

Here are the key findings:

So how do we fix it? Here’s what the MassDOT is suggesting:

• Address local and regional bottlenecks where feasible
• Actively manage state and local roadway operations
• Reinvent bus transit at both the MBTA and Regional Transit Authorities
• Increase MBTA capacity and ridership
• Work with employers to give commuters more options
• Create infrastructure to support shared travel modes
• Increase remote work and telecommuting
• Produce more affordable housing, especially near transit
• Encourage growth in less congested Gateway Cities
• Investigate the feasibility of congestion pricing mechanisms that make sense for Massachusetts

Earlier this year, Boston earned the title of Worst Rush Hour Traffic in the country!  Good grief!