Public Transit Project Completions Coincide With Returning To The Office

This year may mark a momentous shift in public transit in the U.S. according to an overview of projects compiled by Yonah Freemark, an urban researcher.  

After nearly two years of professionals largely working from home and public transit use hitting record lows, new projects indicate that this mode of transportation is not dead.  

“2021 was a particularly bad year for actually getting projects done,” said Freemark. “I think maybe 2022 is the year we get out of that.” 

According to Freemark’s findings, there are 22 fixed guideway lines (such as subways and streetcars) expected to open this year in addition to many bus lines. More specifically, Boston’s Green Line Extension, San Francisco’s Central Subway, and Milwaukee’s lakefront streetcar extension will be completed this year. 

However, Freemark warns that some of these deadlines may not be realistic. 

Infrastructure and transportation projects have rarely been delivered on time. Still, if accomplished, these completions seem to coincide with ramped up efforts to bring workers back into the office. 

Despite the growing number of people continuing to work from hybrid or flexible arrangements, the demand for well-oiled public transit will continue to play a leading role in how people get to and from the office.