NYC’s recent population boom saw only an increase in public transit, not vehicle traffic
NYT reports that between 2003 and 2007, as New York City’s population and economy boomed, there was virtually no increase in street and highway traffic. Instead, all of the increased mobility went to the city’s public transit system.
While traffic held steady over this period of time, public transit ridership soared, increasing about 9%, according to a study to be released by the city on Monday.
Bruce Schaller, the city’s deputy transportation commissioner for planning an sustainability, who wrote the report said:
“What you see is that for the first time since at least World War II, all of the growth in travel in the city has been absorbed by non-auto modes, primarily by mass transit…
“…in terms of the city’s sustainability goals, this is very encouraging to see.”
This phenomena is being attributed to improvements and upgrades in service in recent years, including the introduction of the MetroCard, which makes using subways and buses much more efficient. Additionally, a steep drop in crime beginning in the Giuliani years, made public transit more attractive. Finally, housing construction in areas well serviced by mass transit have also increased ridership.
- Similar Posts:
- Santa Monica contemplates commercial development ban
- Falling gas prices may be reversing ridership growth in public transit
- San Diego sees decrease in freeway traffic
Comments
Please contribute to the discussion by leaving a comment below. No need to agree with the post or other commenters, but please be constructive and respectful.
