Terra Nova author Eric W. Sanderson builds a refreshingly wonky case for a modern streetcar revival.
In an excerpt from his new book Terra Nova published on Places, ecologist Eric W. Sanderson investigates the physics of human transport.
He compares the energy consumption of walking, biking, roller skating, NEVs, various automobile classes, diesel and electric buses, streetcars, light rail, heavy rail, commuter rail, jet planes, and ferries, and comes to the conclusion that streetcars are the best way to travel.
After looking at the reasons historical streetcars systems failed, Sanderson lays out his plan for a modern streetcar revival, supported by municipal investment in urban rail and short-term concession agreements.
FULL STORY: Roads to Rails
Op-Ed: Detroit's QLINE Is 'At Times an Embarrassment'
Randy Essex details why it is that "rely" isn't a word that comes to mind for many Detroiters when they think about downtown's QLINE streetcar system.
Study Casts Doubt on Streetcars' Ability to Spur Development
Examining Portland and Seattle's much-talked-about systems, the authors highlight the importance of treating streetcars as a viable transport option, rather than just a means to stimulate development.
Calls to Bring the Olympic Streetcar Back to Vancouver
Vancouver's mile-long street car was built for the Olympics and ran for only 60 days, but some of the city's residents want that service back.
Seattle Legalizes Co-Living
A new state law requires all Washington cities to allow co-living facilities in areas zoned for multifamily housing.
NYC Officials Announce Broadway Pedestrianization Project
Two blocks of the marquee street will become mostly car-free public spaces.
The City of Broken Sidewalks
Can Los Angeles fix 4,000 miles of broken sidewalks before the city hosts the 2028 Olympic Games?
Why Some Affordable Housing Managers Are Running Education Programs
Many housing organizations are finding that educational programs are a logical — and valuable — addition to their offerings.
Anchorage Bus Depot to Reopen
After a four-year closure, a downtown Anchorage transit center will once again provide indoor waiting areas and services for bus travelers.
Mapping a Greener Future: Cal Poly Tackles Urban Canopy Challenges
Cal Poly, in partnership with Cal Fire, is leading the development of California’s new Strategic Plan for Urban Forestry, combining advanced data tools and interdisciplinary collaboration to expand tree canopy cover.
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