What is the largest city in the US without a subway?

Arlington: The Lone Star City Without an Underground Heartbeat

In the bustling landscape of the United States, where sprawling metropolises and intricate subway networks often intertwine, there exists an anomaly: Arlington, Texas. With a population exceeding 390,000, this vibrant city stands as the largest in the country without a single subway line.

As the home to iconic sporting venues such as the AT&T Stadium and Globe Life Field, Arlington’s lack of a subway system may come as a surprise. But for this Lone Star city, it’s a testament to a unique urban landscape driven by private vehicles.

The Automotive Lifeline

While subways are the lifeblood of many major cities, Arlington has forged a different path. Here, the automobile reigns supreme. Vast highways crisscross the city, connecting its sprawling neighborhoods, business districts, and entertainment hubs.

The city’s transportation infrastructure revolves around private vehicles, with a comprehensive network of roads and freeways. This car-centric approach has undoubtedly shaped the city’s layout, resulting in a more dispersed population compared to subway-centric urban areas.

A Tale of Two Cities

To understand Arlington’s unique transportation landscape, it’s helpful to compare it to its larger neighbor, Dallas. Located just 20 miles to the east, Dallas boasts an extensive light rail and subway system that serves as the backbone of its public transportation network.

This contrast highlights the different urban development philosophies that have shaped these two neighboring cities. While Dallas prioritized mass transit, Arlington embraced a more decentralized approach, with a focus on individual mobility.

The Future of Mobility

As cities worldwide grapple with the challenges of urban mobility in the 21st century, the case of Arlington offers an intriguing perspective. While the city has thrived without a subway system, it’s unclear whether this will remain the case as the population continues to grow.

Some residents and urban planners advocate for the introduction of public transit options, arguing that it would improve mobility, reduce traffic congestion, and foster a more sustainable city. Others maintain that the city’s current transportation infrastructure is sufficient and that the introduction of subways would be an unnecessary expense.

Ultimately, Arlington’s transportation future remains open. As the city continues to expand, its leaders will need to carefully consider the needs of its residents and the role that public transportation might play in its evolution.