Academic Discussion · Set 6

Your professor is teaching a class on urban planning. Write a post responding to the professor's question. Contribute your own opinion and reasons, and add to the discussion.

Professor Ortega: Many cities are deciding how to spend limited transportation budgets. Some argue the money should go to expanding public transit like buses and trains; others say it should improve roads for cars. In your view, which should a growing city prioritize, and why?

Student (Kofi): I think public transit should come first. It reduces traffic and pollution and helps people who cannot afford cars get to work. For example, cities that expanded their metro systems have seen traffic congestion drop significantly within just a few years.

Student (Lena): I understand that, but many people already depend on cars, and poor roads cause accidents and waste time. Improving roads helps everyone right now. For example, poorly maintained roads in my city cause frequent accidents, and drivers waste hours stuck in traffic every single day.

Write a response of at least 100 words. State your own position clearly, give reasons and an example, and refer to a classmate's point where relevant.