Originally Posted by msu2001la

This is exactly the point of the NYT editorial. Most/all of the US has prioritized driving above all other modes of transport, and therefore our roadways are designed to prioritize driving, and are generally not very safe for biking or walking.

This is not just a "city" problem. Suburban streets are often multi-lane arterials with large intersections that are difficult to cross, have no sidewalks. Most suburban commercial development relies on massive parking lots, etc. The expectation in the suburbs is that walking and biking only occurs as a recreational activity in parks or on designated trails. The only people riding bikes in the road are "enthusiasts" willing to get up at 5am.

Other parts of the world decided that this wasn't acceptable and changed their thinking. In many European cities, the idea of driving a 5000lb SUV's to ferry kids to/from schools that would otherwise be a 10-15 minute walk or bike ride is insane. In the US, it's not just the norm, it's often the only option.