Transportation in American Life

Catalog description

This course explores the critical role of transportation in the development of our cities, regions, states, and nation. It considers the historic role of transportation, its current role, and the role it might play in the future. Transportation will be viewed in the context of national policies, overall political will, and our culture at large. Since colonial times, transportation, in its many forms, has been the subject of intense debate, governmental policies, as well as the subject of public and private investment. This course studies how certain individuals and groups used ego, power, and wealth to use transportation for shaping the nation's commerce, travel patterns, and physical appearance. It views the evolution of government and business in transportation decisions and funding. Current issues as part of every class are looked at. Case Studies concerning transportation issues of northeast Ohio are studied as a microcosm of national transportation issues. Some of these issues include funding, decision-making, land use, "suburban sprawl," and economic development. Transportation issues specific to the University Circle area such as the Health Line and the "Opportunity Corridor" are considered. Offered as ECIV 220 and POSC 220 . Counts as a Communication Intensive course.