California Highways: End Of An Era?

As California searches for alternatives to freeway-building, here is a look at the cultural impact of highways on American culture and the implications of ending new highway development.

1 minute read

September 4, 2001, 8:00 AM PDT

By Abhijeet Chavan @http://twitter.com/legalaidtech

Americans have long regarded the highway as sacred space, a place of romance, solitude and self- discovery, and the healing, redemptive power of the road has spawned a genre of literature -- not to mention television shows, films and pop music... The dark side of highway culture...arrived with all the subtlety of a 24-hour mini-mart. The destruction of historic urban neighborhoods, the relentless franchising of the American landscape, the rise of road rage and vast empty commutes... As Californians contemplate alternatives to brand new highways, including bike paths and light rail, the cultural implications loom large."

Thanks to Abhijeet Chavan

FULL STORY: Is There Room for Kerouac in a Car Pool?

Sunday, September 2, 2001 in The New York Times

Transportation California

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

Start Learning

Advertise with us

Urban Design for Planners 1: Software Tools

This six-course series explores essential urban design concepts using open source software and equips planners with the tools they need to participate fully in the urban design process.