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The steady increase in the number of vehicle miles traveled in Montgomery County coupled with a decline in the percentage of the population using public transportation reflects a growing dependence upon the automobile. The more we drive the more see growing problems of traffic congestion and an increased amount of time spent in traffic jams. Gasoline fueled automobiles also create air and water pollution. A higher number of SUV's on the road, having lower fuel efficiency than smaller cars, increases the pollution problem. Also, the increasing use of land to build roads reduces wildlife habitat and deprives the community of valuable open space.
Vehicle Miles Travelled
1985
1990
1998
Population
62,800
757,027
837,000
VMT
1,156,000
1,406,000
1,713,000
Residents can reduce vehicle miles traveled by taking a bus or Metro, ride sharing, combining trips, or walking and biking. Emissions resulting from gasoline consumption can be reduced by converting to alternatively fueled vehicles, driving fuel efficient cars, and keeping cars maintained at peak efficiency.
Click on image to view the declining use of public
transportation as a factor of an increasing population base.
Public Transportation Usage
1980
1985
1990
1995
population
579,053
628,000
757,027
810,000
people using public transportation
71,123
108,701
179,617
178,193
metrorail boarding
21,223
45,401
67,117
67,593
metrorail boarding
3.7%
7.2%
8.9%
8.3%
bus ridership
49,900
63,300
112,500
110,600
bus ridership
8.6%
10.1%
14.9%
13.7%
