The rivalry between Dallas and Houston is well known, but Dug Begley recently made a compelling comparison between the two cities: their approach to commuter rail.
"When it comes to rail development…it's not just miles, but long-running philosophies dating back more than 30 years that divide Houston and Dallas as both open new rail lines this year," writes Begley.
The comparison is especially apt as Houston prepares to open new Purple and Green lines (expected in the fall) and a new Dallas Area Rapid Transit line brings rail to the region's major airport (expected in August).
"Since 1983, and some argue even longer than that, the cities have been on vastly different trajectories when it comes to rail transit. Dallas has enjoyed a much less fractious political climate. That relative calm compared to Houston has given Dallas officials more latitude to invest and leverage local money to capture federal funds."
That tradition has led to the more dense of the two having less rail transit service: "DART will soon have 90 miles serving 62 stations, while Houston later this year will have 22 miles of track and 38 major stops….Houston's population is twice that of Dallas, though their respective metropolitan areas are similar in size."
The article is a good, long piece, with plenty of detail and opinions from either side of the debate about transit and rail in particular.
FULL STORY: Dallas, Houston follow different paths on rail development
Two Studies Show How Light Rail Benefits Houston
Finally, the city seems to be reaping benefits from a major investment in public transportation.
Questioning the Wisdom of Light Rail in the Sun Belt States
As Houston, Dallas and other sun belt cities build out their light-rail systems, some are asking if the investment is worth it.
Light Rail Leading the Way in the Sun Belt
Cities traditionally thought of as car-centric are putting ambitious light rail plans at the center of ambitious plans for transit.
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.
Denver's New High-Rise Integrates Vertical Canyon in Architectural Design
Unlike other new builds in Denver, Colorado, a new high-rise reveals a unique “sculptural canyon” running vertically through the facade to foster a sense of community and connection to nature.
California E-Bike Rebate Program Launches — Again
After a series of fits and starts, CARB says the program will begin accepting applications this month.
Analysis: Localized Upzoning Less Effective
Changing zoning rules for a small number of parcels can increase land values and housing costs without boosting the housing supply.
Amtrak Breaks Ridership Record in FY 2024
More Americans than ever rode the rails last year, also bringing the agency its highest ticket revenue.
Urban Design for Planners 1: Software Tools
This six-course series explores essential urban design concepts using open source software and equips planners with the tools they need to participate fully in the urban design process.
Planning for Universal Design
Learn the tools for implementing Universal Design in planning regulations.
Caltrans
Heyer Gruel & Associates PA
Caltrans
American Planning Association, Sustainable Communities Division
HUDs Office of Policy Development and Research
HUDs Office of Policy Development and Research
City of Cambridge, Maryland
Newport County Development Council: Connect Greater Newport
Rockdale County Board of Commissioners