Traffic in Madison
Madison, WI, predominantly relies on cars for commuting, with a significant portion of the population also using bicycles.
The city's traffic data for 2024 highlights key areas for improvement in public transportation and emissions reduction.
Average Commute Times
The average commute involves 22.6 minutes of driving and a total travel distance of 20.69 miles.
- Bus - Bus commuters spend about 30 minutes traveling over a distance of 6.44 miles.
- Car - Car commuters typically drive for 27.12 minutes, covering a distance of 23.85 miles.
- Walking - Walking commutes average 25 minutes, with a distance of 5 miles.
Traffic Breakdown
Traffic Data
Overall average travel
Average when primarily using Bus
Average when primarily using Car
Average when primarily using Walking
More Information
Seasonal Trends
Traffic tends to increase during the winter months due to adverse weather conditions affecting road safety.
Summer months see a rise in bicycle usage, reducing car traffic slightly.
Commuter Pain Points
Limited public transportation options lead to high car dependency.
Traffic congestion during peak hours increases commute times significantly.
Best Travel Times
Traveling before 7 AM or after 7 PM can help avoid peak traffic congestion.
Midday travel between 11 AM and 2 PM is generally smoother with less traffic.
Event Impacts
Public events, especially around the University of Wisconsin, can cause significant traffic disruptions.
Sporting events and festivals often lead to temporary road closures and increased congestion.
Sustainability Efforts
Madison is investing in bike lanes and pedestrian-friendly infrastructure to promote sustainable commuting.
The city is exploring electric bus options to reduce public transport emissions.
Ride-Sharing Impact
Ride-sharing services have helped reduce the number of cars on the road, particularly during peak hours.
These services offer flexible commuting options, complementing public transport in less accessible areas.
