Urban Congestion: Why Electric Vehicles and Suburbs Worsen Traffic Jams

Electric vehicles (EVs) have long been portrayed as a panacea for environmental and urban transportation issues. However, this trend is anything but ideal. In reality, EVs, alongside internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, contribute significantly to urban traffic congestion, environmental degradation, and arguably, socio-economic disparities.

Environmental Impact of EVs and ICE Vehicles

Electric vehicles are often viewed as a greener solution, but the environmental impact of both EVs and ICE vehicles is substantial. The production and disposal of batteries, along with the mining and manufacturing processes, release harmful pollutants and greenhouse gases. Additionally, the lifecycle of these vehicles results in substantial waste, as they improperly disposed of end up in landfills. This contributes to a cycle of unnecessary pollution and waste, exacerbating environmental issues.

Urban Sprawl and Its Consequences

Urban sprawl, enabled by the prevalence of EVs and ICE vehicles, leads to the redlining of food deserts and communities that are not pedestrian-friendly or bicycle-friendly. Cities become inhospitable to both humans and animals, with streets dividing communities rather than connecting them. This urban sprawl not only impacts the environment but also disrupts social and economic landscapes, creating inhospitable environments that are difficult to navigate and navigate.

The Financial Burden on Individual Citizens

The financial burden of transportation is disproportionately placed on individual citizens, often through fines, fees, road subsidies, permits, tickets, tolls, and insurance. This financial strain is not sustainable, as it has not been the norm for even 80 years and serves as a significant hurdle to efficient urban mobility. Investing in commuter rail, which is more reliable and engineered than buses, can significantly alleviate these issues and improve the overall quality of life for citizens.

Investment in Public Infrastructure

The destruction of public infrastructure, driven by disenfranchised urban renewal efforts, has led to the loss of many special places and entire communities. These efforts, often spearheaded by figures like Robert Moses, intentionally marginalized communities and pushed through highways that exacerbated urban sprawl. The resulting neglect and divestment from public infrastructure have had long-lasting detrimental effects on urban environments.

Implications for Urban Mobility and Community

The reliance on personal vehicles has led to overcrowded and inefficient roadways, which, no matter how much is invested in widening or adding lanes, will only increase congestion. There is a dire need for more comprehensive and integrated public transportation systems, such as commuter rail, high-speed rail, and well-integrated circuits of commuter rail, intercity rail, and local mass transit systems. These systems could prevent people from living in increasingly congested city centers and stimulate local economies, preventing gentrification and the destruction of historic neighborhoods.

Designing Future Cities

It is imperative to design cities that reflect a future that embraces humanity. By integrating sustainable and efficient transportation systems, cities can become thriving centers of culture and character rather than inhospitable morasses of mediocrity. Innovations such as 3D printing and hempcrete can help rebuild beloved structures, create vertical agriculture farms, and promote civic engagement. These efforts not only improve the built environment but also ensure that our cities reflect a commitment to community and the environment.

In conclusion, the proliferation of electric vehicles and the continued urban sprawl driven by consumerist and unsustainable practices are significant contributors to traffic congestion and environmental degradation. By shifting focus to comprehensive and integrated public transportation systems, we can create cities that are not only more efficient and sustainable but also reflect a commitment to the well-being of both human and non-human communities.