What gridlock? The only gridlock I've experienced is in Virginia. Of course, I'm not crazy enough to drive in DC. Metro has delays but gridlock, nah! As for NY, at least they know how to merge at speeds greater than 5 mph!
Tell me you've heard of Marion Barry, please. That thing about international city was an actual quote from Marion Barry justifying why he was spending beaucoup tax dollars to have a Nigerian vacation for a conference of international mayors. Do a google search for "Marion Barry Quotes" and you'll laugh for days. Tim