What is the largest city in the US with no subway?

Arlington, Texas: The Anomaly of a Major City Without a Subway

Amidst the sprawling metropolises of the United States, Arlington, Texas, stands out as a unique anomaly: a city with a large population and density, yet conspicuously devoid of a subway system. This striking absence of public transit within a major urban center underscores the intricate complexities of urban infrastructure development.

Population and Density

Arlington, located in the heart of the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex, is home to over 395,000 residents. With a population density of nearly 4,000 people per square mile, it ranks among the most densely populated cities in the United States. Such a substantial population typically necessitates a robust public transportation system to accommodate the movement of commuters.

Lack of Public Transit

Despite its size and density, Arlington lacks even a basic bus system. While neighboring cities like Dallas and Fort Worth boast extensive public transportation networks, Arlington residents rely solely on personal vehicles for their daily commutes. This reliance on cars contributes to traffic congestion, air pollution, and limited mobility for those without access to private transportation.

Historical Factors

The absence of public transit in Arlington is rooted in several historical factors. The city’s rapid growth in the postwar era was largely driven by the arrival of General Motors, which established a major manufacturing facility there. The decentralized nature of the city’s economy and the prevalence of private transportation further discouraged the development of a comprehensive public transit system.

Political Considerations

Political decisions have also played a role in Arlington’s lack of public transit. Historically, local leaders have opposed proposals for transit investment, citing concerns about costs and perceived negative impacts on property values. This resistance has hindered efforts to bring public transportation to the city.

Urban Infrastructure Complexity

The case of Arlington highlights the complexities involved in developing urban infrastructure, particularly in cities with a history of automobile dependence. Establishing a comprehensive public transit system requires substantial capital investment, careful planning, and the cooperation of multiple stakeholders.

Implications and Challenges

The absence of public transit in Arlington presents significant challenges for the city’s future growth and sustainability. Traffic congestion continues to worsen, while air pollution and carbon emissions remain concerns. Additionally, limited mobility hinders economic opportunity and social equity for those without access to private transportation.

Future Considerations

As Arlington continues to grow, the need for public transit becomes increasingly apparent. Recent studies have identified potential routes for a light rail or bus rapid transit system that could connect the city to neighboring transit hubs. However, political will and funding remain key barriers to the implementation of such projects.

Conclusion

Arlington, Texas, stands as a unique and thought-provoking example of a major city without a subway system. Its large population, dense urban environment, and lack of public transit underscore the multifaceted challenges and considerations involved in developing urban infrastructure. The absence of public transportation in Arlington serves as a reminder that historical factors, political decisions, and the complexities of urban planning can significantly shape the mobility patterns and sustainability of our cities.