There’s been a lot of buzz around traffic, parking and alternative modes of transportation around Portland in the press recently. Though the only thing more mundane than traffic itself might be talking about traffic, it nevertheless deserves attention. Regardless of race, creed or political leaning, everyone dislikes this quotidian experience. I think deep down most recognize that in no way is traffic healthy for people or for our planet. When I inevitably get stuck in traffic, sometimes my imagination runs wild. It pictures roads as the arteries and veins of our city. Traffic is atherosclerotic plaque preventing good flow to the vital areas, and car accidents the heart attacks or strokes, killing or severely debilitating people’s lives.

The metaphor carries an eerie truth. As a clinician, I better appreciate the effects of air pollution on human health. Studies show that pollution increases cardiovascular and respiratory disease. This is becoming increasingly recognized in the medical community. The New England Journal of Medicine even has “Climate Crisis and Health” listed as one of its core topics. For our health and for the health of our growing city, we must make a concerted effort to significantly reduce single occupancy vehicles in Portland.

I am proud to be a daily bicycle commuter in Portland. Riding my bike brings me peace and happiness, no matter what the day brings. While I hope others find the same joy in riding bicycles, a multi-pronged approach will be necessary to decrease single occupancy vehicles.

Kurt Grahnke
South Portland