Is a Solution in Search of a Problem I-73 is a solution in search of a problem. A little traffic congestion where none existed ten years ago can be seen by some as proof of the need for a new freeway. The problem with this methodology is that it assumes the same rate of growth regardless of the solution set. But these straight line projections ignore the elasticity of travel demand as well as the phenomenon of induced traffic.
Elasticity refers to choices people make when confronted with congestion or perceived congestion.
We alter our behavior to avoid the hassle. Induced traffic refers to new trips that would not have been taken but for the perceived convenience of the new freeway. The effect is huge. So the growth rate in the no-build scenario should be lower over time and the growth rate in the freeway options should be higher. Finally, I urge I-73 opponents to look at VMT growth and not let population growth be used as an argument when discussing future needs.