Why Don't More American Cities Have Subways for Transportation?

The limited presence of subways in many American cities can be attributed to several factors that collectively create significant challenges in their implementation. This article explores these key factors and provides insights into why only a few cities, such as New York City, Washington D.C., and San Francisco, have developed extensive subway systems.

1. Cost

Building a subway system is an extremely expensive endeavor. The costs involved include the acquisition of construction land and the ongoing maintenance of the infrastructure. Cities that lack the necessary financial resources or political will often struggle to invest in such large-scale projects. The high upfront costs, along with the continuous maintenance expenses, make subways a less attractive option for many American cities.

2. Urban Density

Subways are most effective in densely populated urban areas. However, many American cities have expanded outward, resulting in a lower population density that may not justify the cost of a subway system. Inadequate population density can make it difficult to recoup the investment, thereby discouraging cities from pursuing such projects.

3. Historical Development

Many American cities developed around the automobile, particularly during the mid-20th century. This led to a pattern of urban sprawl, where cities expanded outward rather than focusing on high-density urban centers. This development pattern made public transit systems less viable, as people increasingly preferred the convenience of personal vehicles over public transit. Cities like Los Angeles exemplify this trend, with extensive road networks but limited rail systems.

4. Political and Public Support

Subway projects often require significant political backing and public support. In many cases, there may be resistance from residents or local businesses, especially if construction disrupts existing neighborhoods. Concerns about noise, dust, and other disruptions during construction can lead to opposition, hindering the progress of such projects. Additionally, public demand for subways must be strong to ensure sufficient support and funding.

5. Existing Infrastructure

Some cities have opted to invest in bus rapid transit (BRT) or light rail systems instead of subways. These alternatives can be less costly and easier to implement, making them more attractive to cities with tighter budgets or more urgent needs. The flexibility and reduced complexity of BRT and light rail systems can also make them more appealing in scenarios where a comprehensive subway network is not immediately feasible.

6. Cultural Factors

There is a strong car culture in the United States that prioritizes personal vehicle use over public transportation. This cultural preference can reduce demand for subway systems, making it difficult to justify their implementation. While there may be pockets of support for subways, the overall cultural inclination towards personal vehicles can pose a significant challenge.

7. Land Use Regulations

Zoning laws and land use policies can also impact the feasibility of building subway systems. In areas where high-density development is not encouraged or allowed, it can be challenging to find suitable locations for subways. Cities need to balance the need for subways with other land uses to make the projects viable.

As a result of these factors, only a few cities have developed extensive subway systems, while others have invested in alternative forms of public transit that better align with their specific needs and contexts.

It's worth noting that there have been rumors and conspiracy theories suggesting the existence of massive underground constructions in various locations, such as the new Denver airport and Dulce, New Mexico. While these theories can be entertaining, they remain unconfirmed and are best left to the realm of urban legends. Official government and private sector projects, such as the massive bunker under the Greenbriar hotel in West Virginia and a presidential bunker in Pennsylvania, have been officially acknowledged. These developments, however, are not indicative of comprehensive subway systems but rather serve entirely different purposes.