diff --git a/public/src/games/catan/CatanAI.js b/public/src/games/catan/CatanAI.js
index 2cf943f..6a78575 100644
--- a/public/src/games/catan/CatanAI.js
+++ b/public/src/games/catan/CatanAI.js
@@ -177,8 +177,9 @@ export function chooseAction(state, seat) {
     return { type: 'buildSettlement', nodeId: settleSpots[0] };
   }
 
-  // 4. Build a road that opens a new settlement spot or extends longest road.
-  if (canAfford(p, COSTS.road)) {
+  // 4. Build a road only when no settlement spot is already reachable.
+  //    If a spot exists, hold resources and save up for the settlement instead.
+  if (canAfford(p, COSTS.road) && settleSpots.length === 0) {
     const road = chooseExpansionRoad(state, seat);
     if (road != null) return { type: 'buildRoad', edgeId: road };
   }