Toronto is modifying its subway cars to improve safety in this age of terrorist bombings, while one expert says the change will only create an illusion of safety.
"An expert on public transit says a controversial new seat layout for TTC subway cars may make commuters feel safer, but there's no proof they actually will be.
Amer Shalaby, a civil engineering professor at the University of Toronto, says perimeter seating â€" bench-like seats that line the sides of subway cars, eliminating hiding places for explosives â€" is a relatively new concept that hasn't been monitored long enough to know if it actually thwarts possible terrorist attacks.
However, Shalaby says the proposed seating arrangement will go a long way to making commuters feel safer. Some Toronto transit users may be worried about taking the subway after terrorist attacks on commuter systems in Madrid, London and Mumbai, he says."
FULL STORY: Does subway seat layout help safety?

Planetizen Federal Action Tracker
A weekly monitor of how Trump’s orders and actions are impacting planners and planning in America.

San Francisco's School District Spent $105M To Build Affordable Housing for Teachers — And That's Just the Beginning
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Texas Legislature’s Surprising Pro-Housing Swing
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Even Edmonton Wants Single Staircase Buildings
Canada's second most affordable major city joins those angling to nix the requirement for two staircases in multi-family buildings.

Duffy Threatens to Cut DOT Funds to “Sanctuary Cities”
“Follow the law or forfeit the funding” says US Secretary of Transportation.
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