"The most squalid public environment of the U.S.: dank, dingily lit, fetid, raucous with screechingclatter."
Thus Mayor Lindsay's task force on urban design characterized the New York City subway system last year.
But the description applies just about as well to any of the nation's other three metropolitan subways. Riding underground in the U.S. is such an un pleasant experience that countless potential passengers simply avoid it, and their lost fares contribute significantly to chronic operating deficits.
The situation should soon begin to improve dramatically. Already existing underground systems are slated for ex tensive renewal. Faster and quieter passenger cars are now...
