"This is the best and most comprehensive analysis available of regional transportation systems in the United States, befitting William R. Black's reputation as one of the field's foremost authorities. Not only is Black's work on the evolution of U.S. transportation insightful, but his development and demonstration of research methodologies is also without peer. The book distills historical and recent policy questions into clear, researchable issues, blending spatial, economic, environmental, and social considerations. It concludes on a positive note of sustainability that is both optimistic and judicious. This book should be required reading for all transportation researchers and analysts. As a text, it is sure to dominate the field for the next decade."--Kingsley E. Haynes, University Professor and Dean, School of Public Policy, George Mason University

"It would be difficult to imagine a more useful or comprehensive introductory text in the field of transportation geography. The author successfully manages to infuse the text with his abiding interest in the geographical aspects of all things to do with travel and transport."--Andrew Gillespie, University of Newcastle, UK