'Lifestyle Changes' Needed for High-Speed Rail's Success

Critics of California's proposed high-speed rail system say that big cities are too spread apart for it to work as well as it has in Europe and Asia. Additionally, Californians will have to learn to adapt to density and public transportation.

1 minute read

October 22, 2008, 1:00 PM PDT

By Judy Chang


"'They're saying it works in Europe, but there are problems comparing (California) with Europe,' said Adrian Moore, vice president of research for the Reason Foundation, which opposes the bond measure. 'It's far more densely developed, and people there were already used to riding trains.'

Transportation experts, including many high-speed rail supporters, say that denser land use - as in Europe and Asia - will be necessary for the system to succeed.

'The high-speed rail system could be far more successful if it's connected with plans to build high density around station sites,' said Martin Wachs, director of the transportation, space and technology program at Rand, a Santa Monica think tank.

Daniels said the authority is already studying ways to encourage denser land use around high-speed rail stations. Van Ark said that usually happens naturally, as high-speed rail makes it possible for people to commute longer distances to work, and proximity to a station becomes valuable."

Monday, October 20, 2008 in The San Francisco Chronicle

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

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

Small rural USPS post office in manufactured one-story grey building with American flag in front.

Delivering for America Plan Will Downgrade Mail Service in at Least 49.5 Percent of Zip Codes

Republican and Democrat lawmakers criticize the plan for its disproportionate negative impact on rural communities.

February 12, 2025 - Cowboy State Daily

Chicago

Test News Post 1

This is a summary

April 8 - 2TheAdvocate.com

test alt text

Test News Headline 46

Test for the image on the front page.

March 5 - Cleantech blog

Military humvee driving through gate at Fort Indiantown Gap Natl Guard training center in Pennsylvania surrounded by winter trees and dead leaves.

Balancing Bombs and Butterflies: How the National Guard Protects a Rare Species

The National Guard at Fort Indiantown Gap uses GIS technology and land management strategies to balance military training with conservation efforts, ensuring the survival of the rare eastern regal fritillary butterfly.

February 24 - Esri Blog