Increased traffic within an area is directly correlated to an increase in population, or the addition and/or expansion of a major traffic generator (shopping mall, industrial plant, convention center, regional arena, etc.  Wyoming’s growth since 1970 is shown in map above.

In Wyoming’s case, while no single traffic generator can be identified as a major contributor to population growth, its proximity to the growing metropolitan area of Grand Rapids, the Rivertown Crossings Mall, and its easy access to both I-196 and US-131 are likely the root cause of its growth pressures.  The completion of the South Beltline freeway in 2005 will likely speed up development along its southern boundary, the largest area of undeveloped property within the City.