The Real Truth About Streetcars

This article in the Dallas Observer about Streetcars was annoying to me. I think my favorite thing about Dallas is the McKinney Avenue Streetcar. I can't think of anything I like more. Even if it were true that buses move faster, run more frequently and run cleaner, the fact that passengers like streetcars more is enough reason to choose them over buses. After-all, people like cars more so they drive. Liking something is an important factor of use.

The other benefit of fixed-transit, ie transit that can't just go anywhere, is that things can be built around it. It encourages density, which helps support walkable retail. It's the whole of the walkable streets and communities that help make our neighborhoods attractive places to live. Buses can serve low-density communities, but it's there where public transportation is least effective and driving is most attractive.

Buses encourage building places where driving is attractive. Streetcars encourage building places where walking and public transit use is attractive.

Streetcars are better because we like them, they encourage dense development and lively retail districts and thus make our cities efficient, charming and livable.

See related: An Unwitting Accomplice