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Transport and the (re)structuring of space
From expansion to transition : mobility as a mirror of society
Means of transport are key elements in our daily lives, and in the United States they have shaped cities themselves. After World War II, the rise of the automobile led to the creation of suburbs, wide highways, and a culture based on individual mobility. Owning a car became part of the American dream, a symbol of freedom, success, and independence.
But this model also had consequences : urban sprawl, pollution, traffic congestion, and social inequalities. Public transport was often neglected, especially outside major cities. Poorer communities had limited access to jobs and services, while cars dominated public space.
Today, as climate concerns and energy crises grow, American society is facing a transition. People question the environmental cost of cars, especially in cities. New urban policies promote walkable areas, bike lanes, and sustainable transport. Electric cars, shared mobility, and even autonomous vehicles are also part of this transformation.
This shift reflects a deeper change : a new vision of space, mobility, and community life. The American way of moving is evolving slowly, but significantly.
Cars, cities, and alternatives : a changing landscape
For decades, the car was paramount in America. Cities like Los Angeles or Houston were built for cars, with large distances and limited public transport. The construction of the Interstate Highway System in the 1950s made long-distance travel easier, but also contributed to pollution and the decline of city centres.
In recent years, many cities have started to reverse this model. New York City has expanded bike lanes and pedestrian areas. Portland, in Oregon, has invested in public transport and “15-minute neighborhoods”, where residents can access most services without a car.
New technologies are also shaping the future. Electric vehicles (EVs), supported by government incentives, reduce emissions and dependence on fossil fuels. American companies are developing autonomous cars, which could change how people commute and use vehicles.
Meanwhile, high-speed rail projects and improved bus networks aim to offer alternatives to flying or driving long distances. These innovations are part of a larger debate : how to balance freedom of movement with environmental responsibility.
In short, the United States, once a car paradise, is now facing a crucial transition. Rethinking transport means rethinking urban space, climate policy, and social inclusion. The road ahead is still long, but new paths are being drawn.
