Rail Ridership Exceeds Expectations

A study of rail-based public transit systems in nine U.S. cities finds that rail systems have boosted redevelopment around transit stations.

1 minute read

July 13, 2003, 3:00 PM PDT

By Chris Steins @planetizen


"A study of rail-based public transit systems in nine U.S. cities found that ridership has surpassed expectations in nearly every case and that rail systems have boosted redevelopment around transit stations. The study suggested that Baltimore could reap similar benefits from expanding its rail system. The new report, Rail Transit Works: Light Rail Success Stories from Across the Country, analyzes the popularity of transit systems in six states and Washington, D.C. For example: Ridership was 40 percent higher than projected after a recent light rail expansion in Denver. Ridership in the first year of rail service in St. Louis was 3.5 times higher than expected. Salt Lake City's system is transporting 50 percent more riders every day than anticipated."

Thanks to J Howard Harding

Wednesday, July 9, 2003 in Metro Magazine

portrait of professional woman

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching. Mary G., Urban Planner

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching.

Mary G., Urban Planner

Get top-rated, practical training

Red 1972 Ford Pinto with black racing stripes on display with man sitting in driver's seat.

Analysis: Cybertruck Fatality Rate Far Exceeds That of Ford Pinto

The Tesla Cybertruck was recalled seven times last year.

July 2, 2025 - Mother Jones

Close-up of park ranger in green jacket and khaki hat looking out at Bryce Canyon National Park red rock formations.

National Parks Layoffs Will Cause Communities to Lose Billions

Thousands of essential park workers were laid off this week, just before the busy spring break season.

February 18, 2025 - National Parks Traveler

Paved walking path next to canal in The Woodlands, Texas with office buildings in background.

Retro-silient?: America’s First “Eco-burb,” The Woodlands Turns 50

A master-planned community north of Houston offers lessons on green infrastructure and resilient design, but falls short of its founder’s lofty affordability and walkability goals.

February 19, 2025 - Greg Flisram

Screenshot of shade map of Buffalo, New York with legend.

Test News Post 1

This is a summary

0 seconds ago - 2TheAdvocate.com

Red 1972 Ford Pinto with black racing stripes on display with man sitting in driver's seat.

Analysis: Cybertruck Fatality Rate Far Exceeds That of Ford Pinto

The Tesla Cybertruck was recalled seven times last year.

18 minutes ago - Mother Jones

test alt text

Test News Headline 46

Test for the image on the front page.

March 5 - Cleantech blog