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While bypasses are often promoted as solutions to urban traffic congestion, their construction poses significant economic, environmental, and social challenges that outweigh their short-term benefits.

Some years ago, I set out to travel much of the original Route 66. Many of those towns lie in ruin.

I lived in New England during my early years. I remember that the drive to our state capital was long and took us through many towns. Then came I95, which is really a bypass on steroids. Many towns that were not served by nearby exits began to atrophy.  Several are no longer incorporated.

We already have NC 17 in Washington, which will become an interstate. If we want our downtown to maintain its vibrance, we must step up our game with signage encouraging travelers to take Exit 80 for Washington.

Economic Harm to Local Businesses
Bypasses divert traffic away from town centers, depriving local businesses of passing customers. Gas stations, restaurants, and shops historically reliant on through traffic often face a decline. For instance, studies in the UK, such as those by the Campaign for Better Transport, found that towns like Bromsgrove experienced reduced economic activity post-bypass. This “economic leakage” undermines community vitality and can lead to long-term unemployment and urban decay.

Environmental Degradation
Constructing bypasses requires extensive land use, often fragmenting ecosystems, destroying habitats, and encroaching on farmland. The carbon footprint from construction machinery and increased vehicle emissions (due to induced demand) exacerbate climate change. While pollution may decrease in city centers, overall emissions often rise as car dependency grows. For example, the M25 London Orbital Motorway initially reduced inner-city traffic but later became one of Europe’s most congested roads, negating environmental gains.

Urban Sprawl and Car Dependency
Bypasses facilitate suburban sprawl by making ex-urban areas more accessible. This sprawl consumes agricultural land, increases infrastructure costs, and entrenches car-centric lifestyles. Cities like Houston, Texas, exemplify how highway expansions spur low-density development, raising public expenses for utilities and roads while discouraging sustainable transit alternatives.

Induced Demand and Congestion
The phenomenon of induced demand ensures that new roads quickly fill with traffic, as seen in bypasses like Germany’s A100 autobahn. Over time, congestion returns, rendering the bypass ineffective. Funds spent on bypasses could instead modernize public transit or promote telecommuting, offering lasting traffic solutions.

Social Inequity and Community Disruption
Bypasses often benefit wealthier commuters at the expense of marginalized communities. Construction can displace residents or sever neighborhoods, as seen with the Cross-Bronx Expressway in New York, which divided communities and exacerbated social inequities. Additionally, non-drivers—cyclists, pedestrians, and transit users—gain no benefits, reinforcing transport inequality.

Cultural and Historical Impact
Bypasses may disrupt historic landscapes or heritage sites. For instance, proposals for the Stonehenge bypass in the UK faced backlash for threatening archaeological treasures. Such projects prioritize convenience over cultural preservation.

Counterarguments Addressed
Proponents argue bypasses reduce congestion and improve safety. However, traffic calming measures, improved public transit, and smart urban design can achieve these goals without bypasses’ drawbacks. For example, Barcelona’s superblocks reduced traffic deaths and pollution while enhancing community spaces.

Conclusion
Bypasses offer temporary relief but perpetuate systemic issues like car dependency and sprawl. Investing in sustainable alternatives—such as rail networks, bike lanes, and mixed-use zoning—creates resilient, equitable communities. By prioritizing long-term well-being over short-term convenience, cities can foster vibrant, inclusive economies while safeguarding the environment.

Roland Wyman is a Washington resident and a former member of the Washington City Council.