Driving in South Bend? Relax! You're in One of the Most Stress-Free Cities in America!

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SOUTH BEND, Ind. — If navigating the streets of South Bend has left you feeling tense, new findings suggest you might be worrying unnecessarily. According to a recent survey conducted by Frisco CDJR, a Texas-based car dealership, South Bend has been ranked as the 54th most stress-free city for driving in the United States. The poll gathered insights from 3,000 experienced drivers, and South Bend earned praise for its considerate motorists, less congested roads, and delightful driving routes.

This recognition follows closely on the heels of U.S. News and World Report’s June 2024 announcement, which placed South Bend at No. 25 on its list of "Best Places to Live in the U.S. in 2024-2025."

In response to the survey, city spokesperson Allison Zeithammer noted, “While this poll represents a small sample of drivers, we are glad to hear that they had a good experience driving on our streets. We are committed to investing in our critical infrastructure across the City that our residents depend on every day.”

With a population of around 103,415, South Bend benefits from light traffic and well-maintained roads. Notably, the survey excluded cities with populations below 25,000, assuming that smaller communities would naturally provide a more relaxed driving experience.

Significant efforts have been made to enhance the driving experience in South Bend, including Mayor Pete Buttigieg’s Smart Street initiative in 2017. This initiative involved narrowing downtown lanes, converting one-way streets to two-way, and installing roundabouts near Memorial Hospital, which initially posed some confusion for drivers, as reported by WNDU-TV. Furthermore, the LaSalle Avenue Streetscape Project was implemented to promote investment, increase safety, calm traffic, and expand the city’s active transportation network, introducing features like raised bumps at intersections to slow vehicle speed.

For those seeking a scenic drive, Riverside Drive—from Leeper Park to Pinhook Park—offers a serene view along the St. Joseph River, complete with trails, fishing spots, and canoeing opportunities. In the fall, the route becomes a picturesque canvas of changing leaves.

In addition to South Bend's recognition, Fort Wayne secured the No. 19 spot for its "impressive road network that efficiently handles traffic." Topping the list for the most stress-free driving experience was Lewiston, Maine, renowned for its tree-lined streets and peaceful atmosphere.

As South Bend continues to improve its infrastructure and driving conditions, residents can take pride in the city’s commitment to creating a safer and more enjoyable environment for all road users.