Making the Connection

New York, the nation's leader in mass transit, has lagged when it comes to integration of its far-flung commmuter rail systems. An exhibit entitled Making the Connection: Moving Forward on Regional Rail at the Municipal Arts Society of New York is worth a look. This is really the beginning of a conversation that needs to happen before the actual planning of these vital links. You can get the gist of the exhibition on line at: www.trainsofthought.com.
An interesting point made in Making the Connection is the paucity of transit oriented-development (TOD) around commuter rail stations in the outer boroughs of New York City. For the most part, these close-in rail stations are lightly utilized, especailly where subway lines are in close proximity. The creators of the exhibit foresee an increase in usage for these facilities with integration of the disparate rail lines and a potential for significant TOD. Ridership would also increase because there would be cross-honoring of fare cards and no fare penalty for choosing commuter rail over subway or city bus. [For more on TOD see my post of September 3, 2006]
Photo: Empire State Building over Bryant Park
When: Yesterday (a blustery fall day with crisp, clean air)