The congestion would undermine access to the port, which played a big part on the region's economy, he said.
The strategy highlighted other roading issues associated with the predicted growth such as accidents, public transport use, rail and infrastructure management.
It included a long-term plan to increase the percentage of freight carried via rail to remove trucks from the roads, including a new rail bridge crossing from Tauranga to Mount Maunganui, offering fast access to the port.
The need for a dual-track rail corridor would be explored, along with electrification of the rail network, the strategy says.
The report highlights the possibility of exploring other transport options such as a city-wide ferry service and ways to encourage people to use other modes of transport besides private vehicles.
Mr King said Tauranga survey data suggested 98 per cent of all trips in Tauranga were in a private car, between 9 and 33 per cent higher than centres such as Hamilton and Christchurch.
8600 houses to be built in Pyes Pa, Welcome Bay and Ohauiti and Pukemapu.
"Council should ... where possible, minimise parking in new developments to support public transport, provide facilities on bus routes, and consider the proximity of new housing developments to bus stops," he said.
Mayor Stuart Crosby told the Bay of Plenty Times the transport strategy was one piece of work to future proof the city.
"This work was not done in the '70s and'80s ... We want to know what is predicted to happen so we will have time to intervene and stay ahead of the game and address the issues."
Mr Crosby said the council would have to consider public transport, roading and rail as the city grows.