Charlotte Vs. Columbus: How Rail Systems Help Economic Development
- UES Admin
- 5 hours ago
- 1 min read
by Aidan Bell
Abstract:
This case study compares economic development, measured in gross metropolitan product and median household income, in Charlotte, North Carolina with Columbus, Ohio, and how said development is impacted by the presence of a public transit rail line. Using census data and accounting for confounding variables, this study finds that the Lynx Blue Line, Charlotte’s rail system, has had a strong correlation with economic growth since 2007 when the line went into operation, while Columbus (lacking a rail line) has experienced slower growth. In this case, there is a statistically significant correlation between the presence of a metro line and economic growth. These findings underscore the economic benefits of public transportation and should encourage United States’ policymakers to invest in public transit.