Long Distance Commuting: Is It Sustainable?

This series of maps visualizes some of the transportation and development issues related to sustainable development in Minnesota. As the Twin Cities metropolitan area becomes more developed, the rural communities at its fringe are experiencing growth. Expanding the development of these fringe communities has numerous implications revolving around energy consumption, increased travel time, the cost of services and family and social impacts. Will tranquil rural communities and a leisurely commute be sustainable in the future?

Transportation and Development Maps

Commuting time: Average travel time to work
Ride sharing: Percentage of workers who car pool
Long distance commuters: Percentage of workers driving 40 minutes or more
Early morning travelers: Percentage of workers leaving home between 5 and 6 am
Rush hour travelers: Percentage of workers in metropolitan fringe areas leaving for work from 5 to 7 am

Technical problems? Contact: andrew.koebrick@state.mn.us