Analyzing Urban Transportation's Economic Impact
In today's lecture on urban development, the professor discussed the impact of public transportation on city growth. She began by highlighting the historical context, stating, 'In the early 20th century, many cities expanded rapidly due to the introduction of streetcars. These systems made it easier for people to commute and encouraged residential developments outside traditional urban centers.'
She then shifted to contemporary examples, saying, 'Cities like Toronto and Tokyo have invested heavily in subway systems. This investment not only reduces traffic congestion but also stimulates local economies and increases property values in surrounding neighborhoods.' The professor cautioned, however, 'It is crucial to ensure that such developments are inclusive, preventing socio-economic divides that can arise when affluent neighborhoods benefit disproportionately from transportation improvements.'
Finally, she provided a closing statement: 'The challenge is to balance growth with sustainability. As we develop our infrastructure, we must consider the long-term effects on all community members and the environment.'
Note: This question has been adapted from its original format to accommodate a reading-based version. In the official TOEFL exam, speaking and listening sections require verbal responses and audio prompts, which are not represented here. Please note that this adaptation may not fully reflect the nature or difficulty of the official exam. The audio feature for these sections will be available soon.