It’s a common sentiment in many US cities: “I can’t wait to get my own car.” This often arises from frustration with public transportation, but the irony is that more cars are hardly the solution. In fact, investing in and utilizing good public transportation is what most city dwellers truly need, even if they don’t realize it yet. Excellent public transportation systems are not just environmentally friendly; they are fundamental to the vitality and accessibility of a city for all its residents, regardless of income. While car ownership may seem essential in many parts of the US, looking at cities prioritizing public transit reveals a different, more sustainable, and ultimately more liberating approach to urban living.
I’ve witnessed firsthand the challenges of inadequate public transportation. Growing up in Hanoi, Vietnam, the struggle to navigate the city without a personal vehicle, primarily a motorcycle, was evident. While bus systems existed, their inefficiency was clear from the traffic congestion that made punctuality impossible when relying on them. This reliance on personal vehicles, however, is not unique to developing nations; many US cities mirror this car-dependent model.
Motorcycles dominate the streets of Hanoi, Vietnam, illustrating the challenges of relying on personal vehicles in cities with developing public transportation.
The impact of car-centric urban planning became even clearer when my family moved from a walkable, well-connected apartment complex in Hanoi to a more suburban-style area. Suddenly, everyday errands turned into lengthy expeditions, and spontaneous outings became logistical challenges. The freedom of independent mobility I experienced as a child, walking, cycling, and occasionally using public transport, vanished. It was only upon acquiring a motorcycle that I regained a sense of access to the city. This experience highlights a crucial point: when cities are designed around people rather than cars, personal vehicles become less of a necessity and more of a choice.
Cities around the world, like Amsterdam and Singapore, have demonstrated the transformative power of prioritizing public transportation and pedestrian-friendly infrastructure. Amsterdam’s extensive network of bike paths and Singapore’s Mass Rapid Transit system are prime examples of how cities can thrive by limiting car dependency and fostering efficient, accessible alternatives.
Unfortunately, the dominant model in the US remains heavily reliant on cars. A significant portion of urban land in the US is dedicated to parking, and the nation ranks poorly in transit use and walkability compared to other countries. Suburban sprawl often lacks basic pedestrian infrastructure like sidewalks, making car ownership not just a convenience but a necessity. This car-centric culture is deeply ingrained, with cars often symbolizing freedom and success. However, cities like New York, London, Seoul, Hong Kong, Amsterdam, and Singapore prove that urban centers can be designed for people, not just automobiles.
Consider the sheer inefficiency of a system where tons of metal and gallons of fuel are used daily to transport single individuals. With millions of Americans commuting by car, the cumulative impact on energy consumption and urban space is staggering. Rail travel, for instance, is significantly more energy-efficient than car travel, yet investment in US public transportation infrastructure continues to lag behind highway expansion. Adding more lanes simply leads to more traffic, perpetuating the cycle of car dependency.
Beyond efficiency, car-dependent cities often suffer from reduced livability. This includes issues like air and noise pollution, limited green spaces, inefficient land use, and increased commute times. Even the concept of freedom is skewed in car-centric environments. True urban freedom includes the option to walk, cycle, and utilize efficient public transport. When cities prioritize cars, these freedoms are diminished.
A comparative view of Amsterdam in 1971 and 2020, highlighting its transformation from a car-dependent city to a bicycle-friendly urban center.
This isn’t an anti-car stance. Cars serve valuable purposes, especially for long journeys. The issue is car-dependent city infrastructure that forces reliance on personal vehicles for everyday mobility. Amsterdam’s transformation from a car-centric city demonstrates that change is possible. The primary obstacles are often the powerful automobile industry and a lack of public demand for urban reform.
To foster change in US cities, advocating for improved public transportation with city councils is crucial. Even small improvements, like enhancing bus stop accessibility, can make a significant difference. The benefits of public transportation extend beyond individual convenience, encompassing environmental advantages like reduced emissions and decreased traffic fatalities. Moreover, robust public transit systems ensure accessibility for those unable to drive.
To understand more about urban planning and the potential of public transportation, resources like the YouTube channel “Not Just Bikes” and journals from urban planning institutions offer valuable insights. By learning about and advocating for better public transportation, we can contribute to creating more livable, sustainable, and accessible US cities for everyone.
While the journey towards transforming US cities into public transportation havens is ongoing, some cities are leading the way, offering examples of what’s possible. Here are a few Us Cities With Good Public Transportation systems that deserve recognition:
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New York City, New York: NYC boasts the most extensive public transportation system in the US. The New York City Subway is iconic and operates 24/7 on many lines, offering unparalleled coverage across the boroughs. Combined with an extensive bus network and the Staten Island Ferry, New York provides a viable alternative to car ownership for millions.
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Washington, D.C.: The Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA), commonly known as Metro, provides a comprehensive rail and bus system serving the capital and surrounding suburbs. The Metro is known for its clean, efficient service and extensive reach, making it a popular choice for commuters and tourists alike.
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Boston, Massachusetts: The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA), or the “T,” is the oldest subway system in North America. While facing modernization challenges, the T’s subway, bus, and commuter rail lines offer extensive coverage throughout Boston and its surrounding areas. Boston’s walkability and the T together make it significantly less car-dependent than many other US cities.
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Chicago, Illinois: The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) operates the “L” train system and a vast bus network. The “L” is famous for its elevated tracks looping through downtown and provides extensive service across the city and to O’Hare and Midway airports. Chicago’s grid street layout complements its public transportation, enhancing walkability and accessibility.
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San Francisco, California: While facing challenges, San Francisco’s public transportation system, including Muni Metro, buses, and cable cars, is relatively robust for a West Coast city. BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit) connects San Francisco to the East Bay and further suburbs. The city’s compact geography and commitment to public transit make it a leader in sustainable urban mobility in the US.
These cities, while not perfect, demonstrate that robust public transportation is achievable in the US. By learning from their successes and advocating for similar investments in our own communities, we can move towards a future where US cities prioritize people and accessibility over car dependency, creating more vibrant, equitable, and sustainable urban environments for all.
