Beyond the Surface: Why Cities Invest Billions in Subways to Solve Congestion, Climate, and Land Use Crises

The reduction in surface congestion brought about by high-capacity rail has a cascade of positive effects, including better public health outcomes. With fewer cars idling in traffic, air quality improves, and noise pollution decreases. Furthermore, metro riders are required to walk to and from the stations, incorporating mandatory physical activity into their daily routine, a benefit often overlooked in transit planning.