Climate advocates are questioning Maine officials’ assertion that a proposed toll road near Portland will curb carbon emissions by reducing traffic congestion. The project, known as the Gorham Connector, aims to offer a direct route from Portland’s suburbs to the city, bypassing local roads that officials argue are ill-equipped for the current commuter load. However, critics argue that such projects often lead to increased emissions due to induced demand.
When compared to other similar projects, the claims made by Maine officials appear less convincing. Historical data from various regions where highway expansions were introduced to reduce traffic congestion often resulted in increased emissions over time. For example, expansions in the Washington, D.C., and Salt Lake City areas not only failed to alleviate traffic but also necessitated further expansions.
A 2012 study supporting the Gorham Connector project recommended a mix of land use, expanded public transit, and road improvements to enhance connectivity between Portland and surrounding areas. Despite this, public opposition has been significant, leading the Maine Turnpike Authority to extend its public consultation process.
Disputed Emissions Benefits
The Maine Turnpike Authority claims that the Gorham Connector will reduce emissions by easing traffic flow. According to the Authority, this reduction in congestion will cut down on idling and conserve fuel. However, critics, including Benito Pérez from Transportation for America, argue that these benefits are minimal. They point out that increased road use from expansions often negates any initial reduction in emissions.
Pérez cited instances where similar projects led to “induced demand,” a scenario in which increased road capacity encourages more driving. This phenomenon often results in more traffic and emissions over time, as seen in other cities. Portland resident Myles Smith, part of the Mainers for Smart Transportation group, is also skeptical, suggesting that the project assumes ideal conditions that are unlikely to materialize.
Comprehensive Climate Measures Needed
The 2012 study backing the bypass proposal highlighted the need for a multi-faceted approach combining road, transit, and development changes. The study indicated that while the Connector might lower vehicle hours traveled (VHT), it would also likely increase vehicle miles traveled (VMT) unless accompanied by dense development and better transit options. Erin Courtney from the Maine Turnpike Authority emphasized this “three-legged stool” approach to offset any increases in VMT.
Though VMT and VHT are commonly used metrics to gauge the climate impact of transportation projects, experts argue this isn’t enough. More comprehensive analyses should include construction impacts and a detailed consideration of other non-road improvements. The debate underscores the need for coordinated solutions that consider both regional and environmental needs.
The ongoing contention over the Gorham Connector project reflects broader challenges in addressing climate impacts through transportation infrastructure. Maine’s slow progress in adopting more holistic and integrated transportation and climate planning measures adds to the complexity. Efforts like enhancing public transit, adding electric vehicle charging stations, and promoting dense development are crucial to achieving long-term sustainability goals. To genuinely reduce emissions and address congestion, the state needs to ensure all these elements work synergistically.
