The Urbanist Agenda

RM Transit, a transportation and urban design expert, dives into the shortcomings of Toronto's streetcar system compared to efficient tram systems in cities like Amsterdam. They discuss nostalgic changes, accessibility woes, and operational inefficiencies that plague Toronto's transit. The conversation highlights safety concerns at traffic signals and the frustrating impact of car culture on public transit. Ultimately, RM Transit advocates for significant upgrades to improve the rider experience and reduce reliance on cars.

In this lively discussion, Bike Curious represents grassroots urban advocates tackling civic inaction. They explore guerrilla urbanism, highlighting creative solutions like improving bus stops and bike lanes. The conversation dives into challenges faced by communities in a car-centric world and shares humorous anecdotes from local initiatives. Listeners learn about the balance between grassroots actions and city regulations, emphasizing the power of community to spur transformation in urban spaces.

Doug Gordon, an expert in urban transportation, discusses NYC's canceled congestion pricing, the impact on transit projects, and challenges in infrastructure funding. Topics include the debate on congestion pricing, controversy surrounding the decision, challenges and benefits of congestion pricing in urban areas, impacts on businesses with parking space removal, and advocacy efforts for policy change.

Expert Gareth Dennis discusses the importance of level boarding on trains for accessibility and safety. He explores challenges, solutions, and successful implementations worldwide. The podcast emphasizes the need for equal access to public transport for all passengers, including those with disabilities.

Jon from Bike Curious joins to discuss why some business owners really hate bike lanes, despite the overall positive impact on business. The podcast explores the clash of perspectives between business owners and urban initiatives, highlighting benefits of bike-friendly infrastructure and challenges in urban planning decisions. It also discusses the importance of adaptation for small businesses in creating vibrant communities.

Greg from Life Where I'm From discusses how Japan remains affordable compared to other developed countries. They delve into housing and transportation policies, zoning laws, and urban planning differences between Japan and Canada. They also explore the challenges of bicycling in Tokyo and parking practices in Japan and North America.

The podcast discusses living in San Francisco with autonomous vehicles, including accidents and challenges. Topics include protests against self-driving cars, controversies in autonomous vehicle testing, and advocating for human-centered cities over car dependency.

Unpacking the financial burdens of car ownership, including hidden costs and rising expenses. Discussing the challenges of car repairs and skepticism towards overcharging. Exploring alternative transportation methods and critiquing the necessity of large vehicles in urban environments.

Discussion on the disparity between road and rail spending in Europe, including the decline of railway infrastructure in Berlin and the privatization of former train stations in East Germany. Exploration of the challenges and potential impacts of a rail infrastructure program. Highlight of the chronic shortage of train drivers in the Netherlands and the idea of automating train lines. Importance of maintenance in rail infrastructure and the benefits of clock face scheduling. Exploration of the decline and subsequent revival of night trains in Europe.

Mrs. NJB has lived car-free for 10 years with her family. They discuss the experience of living without a car, relying on alternative transportation methods, frustration with traffic, positive experiences with car share services, and dangerous incidents involving cars in their area. They also talk about choosing an electric bike over a car, living car-free in Toronto and the Netherlands, and how being car-free has been a convenient and enjoyable lifestyle.