Exploring American Cities Without a Subway System

Many large American cities do not feature a subway system, opting instead for other forms of public transportation due to various reasons such as geographic spread, cost, and historical context. This article delves into the reasons behind this absence and highlights several notable American cities that have chosen alternative means of urban transit.

Examples of American Cities Without a Subway System

Phoenix, Arizona

Phoenix, located in the southwestern United States, is a city without a subway system. While it does have one light rail line connecting Phoenix, Tempe, and Mesa, extensive bus coverage is also available. However, due to the city's sprawling nature, frequent bus service may not be sufficient for all residents and visitors, making a car essential for many.

Other American Cities Without Subways

Several other large cities in the United States have opted for light rail systems rather than subways. This decision is often influenced by factors such as the city's layout, population density, and available budget.

Denver, Colorado Others

Cities such as Denver, Portland, Minneapolis, Seattle, Houston, and San Diego do not have subways. Instead, they have established light rail systems that serve a significant portion of the population. These cities often choose light rail because it is more cost-effective and easier to implement in areas with varied terrain and less densely populated regions.

Texas Cities Without Subways

A notable example is Texas, where no major cities have underground rail systems. The landscape and urban expansion patterns in Texas have led cities to rely more on above-ground transportation solutions. This approach is more practical and cost-effective considering the open spaces and low population density in many areas.

Comparison with Cities in Poor Countries

Many big cities in developing countries do not have subway systems either. Cities like Kinshasa, Karachi, Bogota, and Luanda have either limited or nascent subway systems, but often make up for this deficiency with well-functioning Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) systems. These BRT systems can efficiently move large numbers of people and are often praised for their ability to provide more affordable and sustainable public transport options.

Count of Cities Without and With Subways

Worldwide, there are significantly more cities without subway systems than with them. This trend can be attributed to a variety of factors, including the ease of developing and maintaining above-ground transportation systems, the challenges associated with building subterranean infrastructure, and the budget constraints faced by many municipal governments. Even in established cities like Rome, the subway system is limited due to the intensive excavation processes required, which can make it more complex and expensive to build and maintain.

Conclusion

While some American cities have embraced subway systems, a significant portion of large urban centers in the United States rely on other forms of public transportation. These alternatives, such as light rail, BRT systems, and efficient bus networks, offer practical solutions to the challenges presented by the unique geography and demographic distribution of these cities.