How Elevated Rail Makes Cities Better

Summary

In this video, the host passionately defends elevated trains, a mode of urban transit often criticized by certain urbanists. Contrary to the belief that elevated trains are detrimental to neighborhoods, the host argues that they are an efficient, affordable, and beneficial form of rapid transit. Highlighting examples from cities like Chicago, New York, and Berlin, the video showcases how elevated trains can enhance cityscapes, provide stunning views, and reduce traffic and emissions. The host also touches on the ease of construction and maintenance of elevated rail systems, making a compelling case for their adoption in urban planning.

Takeaways

• 🚝 The video advocates for the benefits of elevated trains, countering the notion that they are detrimental to urban environments.
• 🌆 Elevated trains are a common feature in cities worldwide, including historic ones like Paris and London.
• 🏙️ Despite initial resistance, people in cities like Paris and Berlin have come to appreciate and rely on their elevated rail systems.
• 🌉 The Stadtbahn in Berlin, built over 150 years ago, is highlighted as an example of how elevated rail can efficiently serve a city's transportation needs.
• 🏡 Elevated trains can be less intrusive and less noisy than cars, contrary to common complaints about their impact on neighborhoods.
• 🌿 Elevated rail can offer unique public spaces and greenways underneath, enhancing urban landscapes.
• 🌍 Elevated trains provide a perspective of the city that is not possible with underground transit, adding to the urban experience.
• 🚗 Elevated rail systems can be more cost-effective and quicker to build compared to underground systems, making them ideal for cities looking to rapidly expand their public transit.
• 🌐 The video suggests that elevated rail is particularly suited to cities with existing sprawl and infrastructure, like those in North America.
• 🔊 Modern elevated rail systems are designed to be quiet and unobtrusive, with minimal noise and vibration.
• 🌐 Elevated rail can be an adaptable and expandable solution for urban transit, allowing for easy maintenance and station upgrades.

Q & A

What is the main argument Reece makes about elevated trains?

Reece argues that elevated trains are a beneficial technology for cities, providing affordable, rapid transit that isn't hidden away from people and can be one of the best things about a city.

Why does Reece disagree with the notion that elevated trains destroy neighborhoods?

Reece disagrees because he believes that elevated trains are popular and integral parts of cities like Chicago and New York, and that removing them would be undesirable to residents.

What is the 'Stadtbahn' in Berlin and why is it significant?

The 'Stadtbahn' is an elevated rail line in central Berlin that carries both the S-Bahn and regional trains. It is significant because it has been in use for over 150 years and allows hundreds of thousands of people to commute through the city center daily.

How does Reece describe the experience of riding an elevated train in comparison to being underground?

Reece describes riding an elevated train as more pleasant than being underground because it allows for views of the sky, fresh air, and a unique perspective of the city that isn't replicable otherwise.

What are some of the benefits Reece lists for elevated rail systems?

Reece lists benefits such as affordability, rapid transit, minimal noise pollution, the ability to add stations and maintenance easily, and the potential for transit-oriented development.

Why does Reece think elevated rail is particularly suitable for cities in North America?

Reece thinks elevated rail is suitable for North American cities because they are often sprawled with large roads and highways, and elevated rail can be built quickly and inexpensively in these environments.

What is the significance of the Second Avenue in New York City in the context of this script?

The Second Avenue in New York City is mentioned as an example of where New Yorkers would likely want to have elevated trains back, indicating a desire for more elevated rail infrastructure.

How does Reece address the concern that elevated trains are loud and disruptive?

Reece addresses this by stating that modern elevated rail systems are quiet and unnoticeable, and that cars are generally louder and more constant sources of noise.

What is the role of elevated rail in transit-oriented development according to Reece?

Reece suggests that elevated rail can directly link destinations with train stations through sky bridges, creating development that is not just transit-oriented but tied directly in with the transit.

How does Reece view the potential uses of space underneath elevated rail?

Reece views the space underneath elevated rail as being versatile, with examples including tiny homes in Japan, restaurants in Europe, and greenways and walkways in various cities around the world.

What is Nebula, as mentioned in the script?

Nebula is a streaming platform owned by Reece and his creator friends, featuring over 14,000 titles that can be watched ad-free, including exclusive and early access videos from various creators.