Urbanism
Why High-Speed Rail Still Matters for the United States
High-speed rail in the U.S. faces challenges, but its potential benefits—reduced emissions, economic growth, and better connectivity—make it essential for America’s future. Learn why investing in bullet trains matters.
Last Updated on September 11, 2025 by Daily News Staff
Why High-Speed Rail Still Matters for the United States
In an article titled Why High-Speed Bullet Trains Won’t Work in the U.S. Right Now, published in Scientific American in 2023, the author paints a pessimistic picture of the future of high-speed rail in the United States. While the piece correctly highlights the need for significant infrastructure upgrades, it largely overlooks the long-term benefits of investing in modern rail systems.
This response aims to challenge those conclusions and explain why high-speed rail remains a vital, transformative transportation solution for America’s future.
Outdated Infrastructure: A Real but Solvable Challenge
The article correctly notes that U.S. rail infrastructure—tracks, bridges, tunnels, and power lines—was built decades ago for slower freight and commuter trains. These legacy systems cannot currently support bullet train speeds.
However, this critique misses a key point: true high-speed rail requires dedicated tracks designed for 150–200+ mph, just like in Europe and Asia. Rather than viewing outdated infrastructure as a dead end, the U.S. should see it as an opportunity to modernize and build a 21st-century rail network from the ground up.
The Case for Investment and Modernization
President Joe Biden has emphasized high-speed rail as a cornerstone of America’s clean-energy future and part of the plan to reach net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. While funding such projects is costly, the long-term payoff is enormous:
Environmental benefits – Fewer cars and planes, lower carbon emissions.
Economic growth – Job creation in construction, engineering, and the rail industry.
Energy efficiency – Rail consumes far less energy per passenger than cars or planes.
The Scientific American article acknowledges the expense but fails to weigh these long-term environmental and economic returns.
Obstacles to High-Speed Rail in the U.S.
The article highlights four major obstacles:
Track improvements
Buy America requirements
Lack of a domestic rail manufacturing base
Funding challenges
While these hurdles are real, they are not insurmountable. In fact, each represents an opportunity: developing U.S.-based rail manufacturing could strengthen the economy, while infrastructure investments can create sustainable jobs for decades.
Why High-Speed Rail is Worth It
High-speed rail offers transformative benefits that no other mode of transportation can match:
Reduced traffic and airport congestion
Fast, affordable intercity travel that rivals air travel for distances under 500 miles
Cleaner transportation that significantly cuts carbon emissions
Regional growth by connecting cities and boosting tourism, commerce, and accessibility
Countries like Japan, France, and China have already proven that bullet trains reshape economies and reduce reliance on fossil fuels. The U.S. can do the same—if it chooses to invest.
Signs of Progress
Even with challenges, progress is happening. Amtrak is introducing new high-speed rail cars on the Northeast Corridor, and expansion projects aim to increase speeds up to 160 mph on additional track miles in the coming decade. Private projects like Brightline in Florida and California’s high-speed rail initiative also demonstrate growing momentum.
The Path Forward
The Scientific American article highlights the challenges but underestimates the transformative potential of high-speed rail in the United States. With the right investments and political will, bullet trains can revolutionize U.S. transportation, reduce carbon emissions, connect communities, and strengthen the economy.
Instead of asking why it won’t work, we should be asking how to make it work. The U.S. cannot afford to fall further behind in sustainable transportation. High-speed rail is not just possible—it’s necessary for a cleaner, more connected future.
👉 Explore more on sustainable transportation in our Urbanism coverage.
STM Daily News is a multifaceted podcast that explores a wide range of topics, from life and consumer issues to the latest in food and beverage trends. Our discussions dive into the realms of science, covering everything from space and Earth to nature, artificial intelligence, and astronomy. We also celebrate the amateur sports scene, highlighting local athletes and events, including our special segment on senior Pickleball, where we report on the latest happenings in this exciting community. With our diverse content, STM Daily News aims to inform, entertain, and engage listeners, providing a comprehensive look at the issues that matter most in our daily lives. https://stories-this-moment.castos.com/
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The Dodger Gondola Project: A High-Flying Transit Idea Facing Heavy Headwinds
The Dodger Gondola Project, a proposed aerial transit line between Union Station and Dodger Stadium, faces major political, legal, and community opposition in 2025. Here’s where the controversial project stands now.
Dodger Gondola Project Faces Major Setbacks as L.A. Leaders and Residents Push Back
For years, the Los Angeles Aerial Rapid Transit (LA ART) — better known as the Dodger Gondola Project — has been pitched as a bold, futuristic connection between Union Station and Dodger Stadium, whisking riders above traffic in a six-minute aerial trip. Supporters call it L.A.’s chance to build a cleaner, faster, iconic transit link. But as 2025 winds toward its close, the project faces more turbulence than ever.
A Quick Refresher: What the Gondola Would Be
The proposed gondola line would travel about 1.2 miles, with stations at Union Station, a stop near L.A. State Historic Park, and Dodger Stadium. Private backers connected to former Dodgers owner Frank McCourt have promoted it as a zero-emission way to move more than 5,000 passengers per hour on game days — and potentially daily for tourists, residents, and park visitors.
Why the Dream Is Stalling
In November 2025, the Los Angeles City Council voted 12–1 to formally oppose the project, urging Metro to abandon it. While the vote isn’t legally binding, it signaled a major political shift. Councilmember Eunisses Hernandez, who introduced the resolution, cited environmental and community concerns — especially the impact on Chinatown, Solano Canyon, and L.A. State Historic Park.
A California Court of Appeals ruling earlier in the year also struck down Metro’s original environmental review, forcing a supplemental EIR that reopened debates about tree removal, tower placement, noise, and neighborhood impacts. The city has additionally ordered a comprehensive traffic study, pausing key permits until it’s complete.
Communities Speak Out
Local opposition has been strong and well-organized. Residents warn the gondola would remove mature trees, alter the character of the State Historic Park, and intrude over communities that have already shouldered decades of infrastructure burdens. Advocacy groups say the project favors private interests over public need, pointing to the lack of a clear long-term funding or maintenance plan.
Not Dead — But Deeply Uncertain
Despite mounting challenges, the gondola isn’t entirely grounded. Metro is still reviewing public comments on the supplemental environmental report, and state lawmakers are debating legislation that could streamline some project requirements. Whether those efforts succeed — or whether political pressure ultimately stalls the gondola indefinitely — remains to be seen.
The Big Picture
The Dodger Gondola Project sits at the intersection of transit innovation, environmental justice, and the future of Los Angeles mobility. For supporters, it represents a chance to modernize travel to one of the nation’s most visited stadiums. For opponents, it’s an unnecessary experiment that risks community space and public resources.
Either way, the next year will be pivotal — and L.A.’s debate over the gondola is far from over.
Sources and links for further information
Associated Press: “Los Angeles officials seek to halt proposed Dodger Stadium gondola” — apnews.com
Los Angeles Times: “Los Angeles City Council votes 12-1 to urge Metro to halt Dodgers gondola project” — latimes.com
NBC Los Angeles: “Dodger Stadium gondola should be a no-go, LA City Council says” — nbclosangeles.com
PR Newswire (project press release): “LA ART Gondola Project Takes Next Step Forward … with Release of Draft Supplemental Environmental Report” — prnewswire.com
LAist: “Controversial Dodger Stadium gondola project gets new environmental report. Here’s how you can weigh in” — laist.com
Official Metro page: “Los Angeles Aerial Rapid Transit (LA ART)” — metro.net
Site for public comment: “Stop The Gondola – Public Comment” — stopthegondola.org
CEQA Notice of Availability: “Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact Report – LA ART Project” — ceqanet.lci.ca.gov
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Urbanism
Celebrating World Urbanism Day: Building Livable Communities
World Urbanism Day: Celebrating livable communities and the role of urban planning. #WorldUrbanismDay Celebrating World Urbanism Day
Last Updated on November 7, 2025 by Rod Washington
Celebrating World Urbanism Day
On November 8th, we commemorate World Urbanism Day, a moment to acknowledge and advocate for the significance of urban planning in shaping livable communities. Also known as World Town Planning Day, this occasion highlights the interaction between inhabitants and their built environments in urban areas.
Urban planning focuses on creating healthy and vibrant communities that offer a high quality of life. By ensuring orderly development and preserving the economy and environment, planners strive to enhance the well-being of residents. The key elements of a livable city include plentiful opportunities for a high quality of life, diverse housing options, accessible public transportation, ample green spaces, and essential amenities like schools, grocery stores, and recreational facilities.
Cities such as Osaka, Tokyo, and Zurich exemplify healthy and livable communities, while Tripoli, Algiers, and Lagos face challenges in this regard. It is essential for us to engage in urban planning discussions, attend local council meetings, and explore ways to improve our communities. Let’s celebrate World Urbanism Day by spreading awareness, connecting with public health networks, and championing the creation of livable cities through #WorldUrbanismDay.
Check out our articles about urbanism: https://stmdailynews.com/category/the-bridge/urbanism/
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Watts Towers: A Landmark of Art, History, and Resilience in Los Angeles
Discover the Watts Towers in Los Angeles, a National Historic Landmark built by Sabato Rodia. Learn about their history, cultural impact, and significance in art, film, and literature.”
Last Updated on September 12, 2025 by Daily News Staff
Watts Towers. (2023, August 13). In Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Watts_Towers
Watts Towers: A Landmark of Art, History, and Resilience in Los Angeles
The Watts Towers in Los Angeles are one of the most remarkable examples of outsider art in the United States. Built singlehandedly by Italian immigrant Sabato (Simon) Rodia over a span of 33 years (1921–1954), the towers stand as a testament to perseverance, creativity, and cultural expression.
Rodia, working without formal training or blueprints, constructed 17 interconnected towers and sculptural structures, the tallest reaching 99.5 feet. Using steel, mortar, and found objects such as glass, tile, pottery shards, and seashells, he created a visionary masterpiece that has since become an iconic symbol of Los Angeles art and heritage.
Recognition and Historic Significance
The Watts Towers are more than an architectural wonder—they are a recognized cultural landmark:
National Historic Landmark (1990)
California Historical Landmark
Los Angeles Historic-Cultural Monument
Listed in the National Register of Historic Places as one of only nine folk art sites in Los Angeles
Their enduring legacy highlights the resilience of both Rodia’s vision and the Watts community, which fought to preserve the towers when demolition was once proposed.
Influence on Culture, Film, and Literature
The influence of the Watts Towers extends far beyond architecture. They have been celebrated and referenced across multiple art forms:
In music, legendary jazz musician Charles Mingus mentioned them in his autobiography.
In literature, they appear in Don DeLillo’s novel Underworld.
On film, the towers have been featured in iconic movies such as La La Land and Ricochet.
These references reflect the towers’ place in both local identity and global culture.
Community and Public Space
The site is also home to the Watts Towers Crescent Greenway, a 0.2-mile rail-with-trail pedestrian and bike path. This space allows visitors to experience the towers while enjoying outdoor recreation, blending community engagement with cultural preservation.
Why the Watts Towers Matter
The Watts Towers are more than sculptures—they are a story of human determination, creativity, and cultural pride. They remind us that art can rise from unlikely places and stand the test of time, inspiring generations.
Watts Towers. (2023, August 13). In Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Watts_Towers
Explore More About South Los Angeles
For those interested in learning more about the rich history of South Los Angeles, we recommend checking out The South LA Recap by Eric Craig on YouTube. The channel dives into fascinating hidden details of the region’s past and offers valuable insights into the cultural landscape surrounding the Watts Towers.
You can also visit Eric Craig’s website for additional resources: South LA Recap
Dive into “The Knowledge,” where curiosity meets clarity. This playlist, in collaboration with STMDailyNews.com, is designed for viewers who value historical accuracy and insightful learning. Our short videos, ranging from 30 seconds to a minute and a half, make complex subjects easy to grasp in no time. Covering everything from historical events to contemporary processes and entertainment, “The Knowledge” bridges the past with the present. In a world where information is abundant yet often misused, our series aims to guide you through the noise, preserving vital knowledge and truths that shape our lives today. Perfect for curious minds eager to discover the ‘why’ and ‘how’ of everything around us. Subscribe and join in as we explore the facts that matter. https://stmdailynews.com/the-knowledge/
At STM Daily News, we’re passionate about uncovering the stories that shaped Los Angeles. Visit our YouTube channelto explore more history, culture, and hidden gems of the city—from landmarks like the Watts Towers to the people and events that defined LA’s past. Subscribe today and discover the history of Los Angeles, one story at a time. https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLEhXBupt8tVyhnfS344AWOC6s7sDNHHKG
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