We can’t build our way out of gridlock

I was disappointed to see that the Washington State League of Women Voters has endorsed Referendum 51. It is true that R-51 would provide a small amount of funding for HOV lanes, ferries, rail and public transportation. Unfortunately, it would also provide a large amount of money to finance enormous environmental degradation without improving traffic. And, as County Councilman Gary Nelson admitted in his Aug. 23 letter (“Referendum 51: County will benefit from its passage”) R-51 would only supply the “down payment” on these construction projects.

The bulk of the money – 85 percent – raised through R-51 would fund highway construction. This comprises the biggest freeway construction program in the history of the state. Unfortunately, adding lanes to all our major highways as R-51 would do will worsen, not help, traffic problems.

The Seattle-Everett area increased its miles of highways and roadways by 44 percent between 1982 and 1997 while the population only increased by 36 percent during that time. And you tell me: has the traffic congestion improved since 1982? This report and others show that we cannot build our way out of gridlock.

On the other hand, building these roads has an enormous detrimental effect on our quality of life, well beyond the frustration of lining up behind the flagger. By adding more cars they increase air and water pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. They directly adversely affect (often destroy) wetlands and other wildlife habitat. Road construction also promotes sprawl by increasing access to far-flung residences by private auto, but not by public transit or bicycle. This is the monster that has destroyed LA, Atlanta and Houston.

I’m all for increased gas taxes. It’s a great way to cause people to think twice about using a non-renewable, polluting resource. But a gas tax that goes to drastically worsen the problem it purports to fix will help none of us. Vote no on R-51, and work for a tax that will fund real solutions, such as improved public transportation and better-planned communities.

Lake Stevens

Talk to us

> Give us your news tips.

> Send us a letter to the editor.

> More Herald contact information.

More in Opinion

toon
Editorial cartoons for Wednesday, Feb. 19

A sketchy look at the news of the day.… Continue reading

FILE - In this Friday, Oct. 4, 2019, file photo, a man using an electronic cigarette exhales in Mayfield Heights, Ohio. On Tuesday, Nov. 19, 2019, the American Medical Association said it is calling for an immediate ban on all electronic cigarette and vaping devices. (AP Photo/Tony Dejak, File)
Editorial: Shut down flavored tobacco’s gateway to youths

Legislation in Olympia would bar the use of flavors and menthol in vape products and cigarettes.

Glad to see right-of-center opinion in Herald

I’ve been a subscriber to the Daily Herald for nearly 20 years.… Continue reading

Which great years are we returning to, President Trump?

A couple of things that I would like to see answered by… Continue reading

Congressional Republicans should stand for beliefs

Dear Republicans, I understand your conundrum. I know you feel you must… Continue reading

Comment: Musk’s shoddy aim at USAID hit U.S. farmers, too

The agency paid farmers $2 billion for crops to feed a hungry world and to support a vital industry.

Gesen: A New York lesson on our choices as collective hostages

Seven U.S. attorneys general stepped down rather than go against their morals. How will we react?

Rivian, based in Irvine, Calif., has introduced its new R2 models, smaller and more affordable SUVs. (Rivian)
Editorial: Open electric vehicle market to direct sales

Legislation would allow EV makers to sell directly to customers, making lease or purchase easier.

People walk adjacent to the border with Canada at the Peace Arch in Peace Arch Historical State Park, where cars behind wait to enter Canada at the border crossing Monday, Aug. 9, 2021, in Blaine, Wash. Canada lifted its prohibition on Americans crossing the border to shop, vacation or visit, but America kept similar restrictions in place, part of a bumpy return to normalcy from coronavirus travel bans. (AP Photo/Elaine Thompson)
Editorial: U.S. and Canada better neighbors than housemates

President Trump may be serious about annexing Canada, but it’s a deal fraught with complexities for all.

CNA Nina Prigodich, right, goes through restorative exercises with long term care patient Betty Long, 86, at Nightingale's View Ridge Care Center on Friday, Feb. 10, 2023 in Everett, Washington. (Olivia Vanni / The Herald)
Editorial: Boost state Medicaid funding for long-term care

With more in need of skilled nursing and assisted-living services, funding must keep up to retain staff.

toon
Editorial cartoons for Tuesday, Feb. 18

A sketchy look at the news of the day.… Continue reading

Herald report of Everett protest inaccurate, biased

I was at the rally and protest in Everett last on Feb.… Continue reading

Support local journalism

If you value local news, make a gift now to support the trusted journalism you get in The Daily Herald. Donations processed in this system are not tax deductible.