The United States faces significant challenges in housing, transportation, childcare, and clean energy, but solutions are achievable, according to Vox's new series, "How They Built It." The series highlights successful, transformative projects from around the world, offering lessons that could be applied to accelerate progress in the US.
Vox dispatched reporters to investigate how other countries and cities have overcome obstacles to implement large-scale infrastructure and policy initiatives. Examples include Sweden's approach to modular housing, Bogotá's extensive urban bike infrastructure, and Uruguay's universal childcare system.
Within the US, the series points to the recent launch of the Sunzia wind energy transmission project, the nation's largest renewable energy endeavor, and Chattanooga's development of affordable municipal broadband internet, which has boosted its local economy. These case studies aim to illuminate successful strategies and inspire similar initiatives across the United States, fostering a more positive future.
The "How They Built It" series was made possible by a grant from Arnold Ventures, with Vox maintaining editorial independence over the content.