5 ways to solve our awful traffic problems
Oct 8, 2014, 11:37 AM | Updated: 4:49 pm
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![The problem:
The Everett to Seattle commute, which we just found out is the worst.
The solution:
Build high speed rail from Everett to Seattle.
Why?
The Sounder train's northern route is plagued by mudslides that halt service all winter long. Add to that, the Everett to Seattle morning commute is the longest in the Puget Sound. A faster way to travel is necessary. High speed rail can go as fast as 150 to 200 miles per hour. That means that a train from Everett to Seattle could take just 15 minutes.
Where it's been implemented:
Most famously, high speed rail has been implemented in Japan, where the tracks are longer than the distance between Seattle and Everett: the longest stretches nearly 418 miles.](https://mynorthwest.com/wp-content/uploads/cms/apimage/1046/ap_8f31de6196d73e26610f6a70670003bc-150x150.jpg)
![The problem:
Getting around within the City of Seattle.
The solution:
Travel by wire to the top of Seattle's hills.
Why?
Whether it's an aerial tram or air gondolas, traveling by wire comes with a few different names in varying styles. It's even been talked about as something that could one day come to Seattle, as a tourist attraction, as well as a mode of transportation. This option comes in handy because although there's only a 10-block walk from downtown Seattle to Capitol Hill, it's steep and it makes your calves burn in a not-so-great-way. It would also cut down on some of the city's biggest chokepoints, like Denny Way.
Where it's been implemented:
Portland. Ski resorts. State fairs and Disneyland.](https://mynorthwest.com/wp-content/uploads/cms/13/1322/132293-150x150.jpg)
![The problem:
Sitting in traffic and getting no exercise.
The solution:
A bicycle built for two, or three or six - a conference bike.
Why?
For commuters who want to do a little work getting around town, but not all of the work, step aboard the conference bike where everyone pedals and one person steers. The bike allows you to have a social commute and get some exercise while stuck in traffic.
Where it's been implemented:
The official ConferenceBike was created by artist Eric Staller and is manufactured in Santa Cruz. A similar bicycle is used in Seattle at the Cycle Saloon.](https://mynorthwest.com/wp-content/uploads/cms/13/1322/132292-150x150.jpg)
It’s like we’re banging our heads against the wall, reporting what you already know: traffic is terrible. And it’s getting worse. When you’re nearing the top of the list for cities with the worst commute, where do you go from there?
It’s time to talk about some of the creative solutions we could implement to relieve the congestion.