What is the largest US city without public transportation?

Arlington: The Largest U.S. City Without Public Transportation

In the realm of American urban landscapes, Arlington, Texas stands as an anomaly. Despite its substantial population of nearly 400,000, the city lacks a comprehensive public transportation system, making it the largest city in the United States without such infrastructure.

A City Reliant on Cars

Arlington’s transportation landscape is dominated by private vehicles. The city’s sprawling layout and relatively low population density have made public transit an unlikely option. Instead, residents rely heavily on their cars for daily commutes and other trips.

The absence of public transportation has contributed to Arlington’s dependence on cars, with over 80% of residents commuting to work by driving alone. This reliance on private vehicles has fueled traffic congestion and air pollution, particularly during peak hours.

Failed Attempts at Public Transit

Recognizing the need for alternative transportation options, Arlington has made several attempts to introduce limited public transit services. In 2010, the city launched a pilot program called “Arlington Taxies,” which provided subsidized taxi rides to residents in certain areas. However, the program faced challenges with low ridership and high costs, and was ultimately discontinued in 2013.

More recently, in 2021, the city explored the possibility of implementing a bus rapid transit system along a major thoroughfare. While the proposal garnered some support, it was ultimately rejected due to concerns about costs and potential disruptions to traffic flow.

Future Prospects

As Arlington continues to grow, the need for public transportation is likely to increase. However, the city faces challenges in implementing such a system due to its sprawling geography and the entrenched reliance on private vehicles.

Some city leaders have expressed interest in exploring alternative transportation solutions, such as ride-sharing programs or autonomous vehicles. However, it remains to be seen whether these initiatives can provide a viable alternative to traditional public transit.

Conclusion

Arlington stands as a unique example of a large American city without a public transportation system. Its reliance on private vehicles has shaped its transportation landscape and contributed to challenges with traffic congestion and air pollution. While the city has made efforts to introduce limited public transit services, these attempts have faced obstacles. As Arlington continues to grow, it remains to be seen whether it will embrace public transportation or continue to navigate its transportation challenges in the same manner.