American Rails

We all know the state of our current interstate rail system.  We know it’s not worth mentioning.  This in mind, the game is wide open and ‘ideation’ is encouraged. Yonah Freemark at http://thetransportpolitic.com/ has created a national mixed use proposal based on the big picture.

Rather then using the current state-by-state planning heuristic, Freemark proposes a nationalized, government owned rail system coined as “NatTrack.” This system, funded in theory by grants and bonds, would establish rail standards nationwide and balance freight and commuter train priority. Amtrack, currently profitless and federally subsidized, would own trains and lease operation rights on a given track.

Freemark, using analysis of ridership and distance, has visually mapped out what such a system should/could look like down the road.  All things considered, the proposal helps the movement. To read more, check out Freemark’s blog.

The Grids

Originally released via the Toronto Star, ‘the grids’ offer a ultra-basic but eerily important perspective of our cities.  All known for being high-density and generally walkable, it is impressive to directly compare the significant layout and design differences.

It almost seems that each grid design matches the common personality of each city.  Compare Paris and NY.