Some LA denizens are complaining that traffic apps are congesting small, residential streets, and they are asking the Los Angeles Department of Transportation to remedy the problem with traffic calming solutions. In response, LADOT told KPCC, “We have no way to and do not track app usage.” Richard Close, President of Sherman Oaks Homeowners Association said prohibiting right and left turns on certain streets could be an imperfect solution, but that it would hinder locals, too.

With the rise of popular driving-related apps that direct you towards the quickest route or the closest parking spot such as Waze and MoneyParking, respectively, cities are finding it necessary to regulate or even ban certain apps from their jurisdictions. San Francisco blocked MoneyParking, and other cities across the country are dealing with issues associated with Uber and other ride-sharing apps.

As Waze has come under heavy fire because it is the largest route redirecting app with 50 million users worldwide, the company has remarked, “Waze finds open stretches of road and spreads cars across the grid of public streets, helping not only alleviate congestion but promote a safer drive.” Yet residents of side-streets in Sherman Oaks have noted that not only has traffic increased dramatically but that it is has become dangerous for streetwalkers.

Should apps like Waze be able to redirect individual routes through all areas of the city? What role does the city of Los Angeles have in regulating such apps? How will the future of driving be shaped by the development and use of technology that shows you where and when to drive?

Guests:

Michael Carney, West Coast Editor of PandoDaily, which covers news about tech startups and other business and technology stories; "Angry LA Residents are trying to sabotage Waze Data"

Richard Close, President, Sherman Oaks Homeowners Association