Drive-thrus are a staple of American culture, offering convenience and quick service to hungry drivers. However, the model is facing criticism from city officials, urban planners, and critics who argue that drive-thrus are detrimental to modern cities.
With an estimated 200,000 drive-thrus spread across the country, Americans visit these lanes approximately 6 billion times a year. For leading chains like McDonald’s, drive-thrus account for 70% of sales or more. While they may be profitable for businesses, drive-thrus have negative impacts on cities.
One of the main concerns is the traffic and congestion caused by long lines of cars waiting for orders. Drive-thrus discourage walking, public transit use, and visits to neighboring businesses. They also contribute to accidents involving pedestrians, cyclists, and other cars, contradicting the environmental and livability goals of many communities.
In response to these issues, several cities and regions have taken action. Atlanta lawmakers will vote on whether to ban new drive-thrus in the popular Beltline area. Other cities like Minneapolis, Fair Haven, Creve Coeur, Orchard Park, and Long Beach have already implemented bans or temporary moratoriums on new drive-thru developments. Pittsburgh and Mesa are also considering restrictions.
Drive-thrus originated in California in the 1950s and gained popularity as highways were built and suburbs expanded. During the COVID-19 pandemic, drive-thrus became a lifeline for chains as indoor seating areas were shut down. Drive-thru sales reached $133 billion in 2022, a 30% increase from pre-pandemic levels in 2019.
While drive-thrus may be profitable and convenient, they often prioritize cars over pedestrian safety. They are typically located along busy arterial roads to grab drivers’ attention, increasing the risk of accidents with pedestrians and cyclists. Drive-thrus can also contribute to rear-end collisions and accidents from cars turning left out of driveways.
Companies claim to be addressing congestion by adding more car lanes and implementing technology like AI to speed up orders. However, this only encourages more cars to come, exacerbating the problem. Drive-thrus also do not support neighboring businesses, as customers typically grab their food and drive off.
Cities are pushing back against drive-thrus to prioritize pedestrian safety and promote walkable neighborhoods. Atlanta city councilman Jason Dozier proposed a bill to block new drive-thrus around the Atlanta Beltline, a popular pedestrian trail. In Salt Lake City, the planning commission proposed a ban on new drive-thru development in business districts due to concerns about blocked sidewalks and bike paths.
Charlotte has also faced challenges with clogged roads caused by drive-thru lanes during peak hours. The city has a long-term plan to become less car-oriented through investments in rail and public transit. However, the Charlotte City Council recently approved new drive-thrus near public transit stations, raising concerns about conflicting goals.
In conclusion, while drive-thrus offer convenience to drivers, they have negative impacts on cities, including traffic congestion, pedestrian accidents, and a lack of support for neighboring businesses. As a result, many cities are taking steps to restrict or ban new drive-thru developments in order to prioritize pedestrian safety and create more walkable communities.
How are cities responding to the concerns regarding drive-thrus, and what measures are being taken to limit their proliferation
Record highs during this time, further solidifying their significance in the fast-food industry.
However, the pandemic also highlighted the negative impacts of drive-thrus on cities. With increased reliance on these lanes, concerns about traffic congestion, air pollution, and safety issues have escalated.
Traffic congestion is a significant problem, with long lines of cars queuing for orders. This not only leads to frustration for drivers but also hampers mobility for pedestrians, cyclists, and public transit users. The dominance of drive-thrus discourages people from walking or using alternative modes of transportation, contributing to a sedentary lifestyle and worsening traffic conditions.
Moreover, the presence of drive-thrus can detract from the overall aesthetic appeal of cities. These lanes often have unattractive canopies, menu boards, and speaker systems, which take away from the visual harmony of urban landscapes. Additionally, drive-thrus divert customers away from local businesses, as people tend to remain in their cars instead of exploring the surrounding area.
Recognizing these concerns, some cities have taken action to limit the proliferation of drive-thrus. Atlanta, for instance, is considering a ban on new drive-thrus in certain areas. Other cities like Minneapolis, Fair Haven, Creve Coeur, Orchard Park, and Long Beach have already implemented bans or temporary moratoriums on new drive-thru developments. Pittsburgh and Mesa are also joining the conversation by exploring potential restrictions.
While drive-thrus have long been ingrained in American culture, the negative impacts on cities cannot be ignored. As urban areas strive for sustainable and livable environments, addressing the issues posed by drive-thrus is becoming increasingly essential. It remains to be seen how cities and businesses will navigate this critical juncture, balancing convenience and profitability with the well-being and future of our urban landscapes.
This article raises important concerns about drive-thrus’ impact on modern cities, from safety and congestion issues to the growing pushback against these conveniences. It’s crucial to prioritize finding a balance between convenience and maintaining the livability of our cities.