The Urbanist Agenda
The Sociology of Car-Brained Planning (with We're in Hell)
Mar 14, 2025
Dive into the complexities of urban planning as the discussion tackles car-centric strategies versus pedestrian-friendly policies. Discover why Toronto's transit system claims the top spot in North America and the political influences at play. The conversation also critiques historical events that shaped current attitudes towards mobility, while examining the duality of a controversial political figure. Finally, the heated bike lane debate reveals clashes between community needs and business interests, pushing for a reimagined vision of urban spaces.
56:05
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Quick takeaways
- The podcast critiques the perception of Toronto's transit system as the best in North America, emphasizing its reliance on rider funding over actual service quality.
- It discusses how urban planning, focused on vehicles, negatively impacts social interactions, particularly for children and vulnerable populations, highlighting the need for more inclusive designs.
Deep dives
The Illusion of Toronto's Transit System
The initial discussion revolves around the claim that Toronto possesses the best transit system in North America, a statement met with skepticism by local residents. The award, presented in 2017 by an unknown organization, was perceived to prioritize potential over actual service effectiveness. Details revealed that the Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) is the most rider-funded transit system in the region, which raises concerns about reliance on fares rather than public funding. Ultimately, this highlights a disconnect between political messaging and the lived experiences of commuters in the city.
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