New website gives Bay Area commuters better roadmap
SAN FRANCISCO (KGO) -- The Bay Area is home to some of the worst traffic in the country, but now there is a new program aimed at motorists to help you navigate through it.
"You get frustrated, I try not to be an angry driver, but traffic doesn't help," said Kathryn Knight.
Knight moved to San Jose from Seattle, about two years ago. Like many people, she's looking for a tool that'll help her save some time.
"If there's any way to get a clear indicator of how long it will take you, and what to expect, I certainly would use it, especially if it was easy, and you could pull it up on your mobile phone. Things like that, it would be of benefit," said Knight.
Knight's wish, may have just been answered.
The Metropolitan Transportation Commission just unveiled a new program called Bay Area Vital Signs.
"We're taking really complex data tables, and turning them into interactive maps and charts that anyone can work with," said Dave Vautin with the MTC.
Vautin is the manager on the MTC project. From land use, to the economy and the environment, he hopes this data will help residents understand the pulse of the Bay Area.
Transportation findings were released as a key part of the first phase.
"Even as traffic congestion has gotten worse, the time we spend commuting has stayed stable, the types of transportation we used whether it's bus, BART or driving, those things have remained relatively consistent over time," said Vautin.
Whether you're looking for a specific commute time or wanting to compare the Bay Area to other major cities across the country, the website has the details. Project leaders hope you'll use it to your advantage.
"To use this information to understand more about their city, their neighborhood, as well as the region, as a whole, and just to get involved," said Vautin.
In the meantime, commuters like Knight will try to stay patient.
"You have to decide is it really worth it to sit in traffic, and often times, the answer is really no," said Knight.
