This thesis examines the development of public transport in one of the world's most populous cities, New York. Throughout history, public transport has influenced the development and expansion of the city. The biggest changes took place after 1904, when the first subway line opened. Before that, trams and omnibuses were popular in the 19th century, eventually replaced by buses and rail. The railway allowed the city to expand out of the centre, as the new lines allowed people to live on the edge of the city and work in the city centre. Although public transport has declined since the advent of the car, it is once again returning to the forefront of New York City's transport strategies in the face of growing spatial and environmental challenges. The thesis concludes with an overview of the current state of public transport and plans for the future. By investing in public transport, the city aims to increase the proportion of citizens who use this mode of transport for their daily commute.
|