Living in a Better World: 3 Ways Mass-Transit Systems Make Cities More Sustainable

Approximately 3.5 billion people today live in cities. Road traffic has become a must-consider factor for many of us on a daily basis. According to the 2012 Urban Mobility Report, American commuters spend almost the equivalent of a work week behind the wheel in one year. The world's population is growing and more and more people are seeking opportunities in urban areas. Citi is committed to helping transform and modernize infrastructure and enhance the cities' livability. One example is the assistance to the Republic of Panama in facilitating funds for the first metro line in Panama City, where there have been long-standing issues of congestion, road insecurity and inadequate infrastructure.

Set to open in March 2014, below are three ways the Panama Metro system will improve the lives of Panama City residents:

1. Cleaner air. By offering residents a reliable rail system, the expected decrease in numbers of cars and buses in the city center area will help reduce the amount of greenhouse gas emissions.
2. Saved time and money: Less vehicles on the road will not only improve air quality for the residents, but save time and money for commuters who will spend less time in traffic congestion and use less fuel.
3. Access. Another great benefit of the new metro line is the increased access from city outskirts, which boosts the degree of integration among Panamanians. The line will facilitate easier access to jobs and educational services in the city for people living in suburban regions.

The metro line project in Panama City is not only a great example of why more investments should be made in infrastructure, but how governments, private sector financial institutions, citizens and communities can work together to meet the challenges of a fast-paced and fast-growing world. Learn more about this project here.