Traffic congestion in North Texas is costing drivers billions of dollars annually and could get significantly worse without additional action, regional transportation officials warn.
The North Central Texas Council of Governments estimates that traffic congestion currently costs the region about $12.4 billion each year in lost time and fuel. That number is projected to rise to $18 billion by 2050 if no changes are made, according to Gwen Dorko, a spokesperson for the council.
“We can’t just keep building highways,” Dorko said. “We have to look at smarter solutions that move more people efficiently.”
To address the growing problem, the council is updating its long-range transportation plan. The update includes an analysis of the region’s most congested corridors and the exploration of alternatives such as expanded commuter and high-speed rail.
Officials say the new plan aims to ease gridlock, reduce emissions, and support the region’s rapidly growing population.
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