Mitigating Community Harms of Dense Highway Infrastructure - Spaghetti Junctions

Abstract

Spaghetti junctions, connecting multiple highways in one dense junction, have improved vehicular connectivity and promoted economic growth. However, their benefits are unevenly distributed, with communities located near the infrastructure often bearing a disproportionate share of costs. Documented impacts on these communities include community fragmentation, displacement, and isolation; reduced property values and local business decline; and increased air and noise pollution, soil and water contamination, and associated health risks. Over the past two decades, growing recognition of these harms has spurred local- and state-led initiatives, many of which aim to balance the community's well-being, equity, and environmental sustainability with transportation needs, while addressing historical injustices. This research analyzes strategies implemented across the U.S. to mitigate the adverse effects of dense highway infrastructure, offering insights to inform similar efforts in Minnesota. The study includes a literature review, a nationwide scan, eight case studies showcasing diverse approaches and contexts, and successful practices to mitigate the harms of dense highway infrastructure. Findings highlight that changes in practices are central to successful mitigation efforts, particularly those around stakeholder engagement that prioritize meaningful involvement of affected communities and cross-sector collaboration.