Coronavirus cuts US congestion, says Inrix

Coronavirus may have thrown transit systems worldwide into disarray, but new data shows the pandemic has alleviated congestion in the US.
By Ben Spencer April 1, 2020 Read time: 1 min
LA's streets are a little emptier than usual (© Veressskun | Dreamstime.com)

In just one week (13-20 March), reduced congestion in 25 of the largest metropolitan areas moved to free-flow traffic, says Inrix.
 
The company found travel speeds increased in Los Angeles from 9% (8am) and 38% (5.30pm) on 13 March to 43% (8am) and 75% (5.30pm) on 20 March.
 
During the same period, Chicago's travel speeds jumped from 8% (8am) and 35% (5.30pm) to 44% (8am) and 74% (5.30pm).

In Phoenix, drivers travelled slightly slower in the morning based on a drop from 20% to 19% but experienced better conditions in the evening with speeds climbing up from 19% to 60%.
 
This upward curve also took place in Miami with travel speeds increasing from 11% to 27% in the morning and going up 25% to 57% in the evening. Drivers travelled more quickly through San Francisco with speeds picking up 17% to 27% (8am) and 29% to 55% at (5.30pm).
 
 

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