What can be a consequence of urban sprawl?

Urban sprawl refers to the uncontrolled expansion of urban areas into the surrounding rural land. One significant consequence of this phenomenon is increased traffic congestion. As cities expand and more people live further from their workplaces or city centers, reliance on personal vehicles rises, leading to more cars on the road. This longer commuting distance typically results in traffic jams, especially during peak travel times, as infrastructure may not keep pace with the rapid growth in population density and vehicle use.

In contrast, enhanced agricultural productivity and improved public transportation are generally not outcomes of urban sprawl; rather, they may be hindered by it. Agricultural land can be lost due to urban expansion, negatively affecting productivity. Reduced housing prices are also not typically associated with urban sprawl, as demand for housing increases when urban populations grow, often driving prices up rather than down. Therefore, the correct identification of increased traffic congestion as a consequence highlights a key impact of urban sprawl on urban living conditions.