Gallery: Commuter Gondolas Are Coming to America. Probably. Maybe?

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    Austin just okayed an “urban ropeway” viability study. If the city gets this thing built, it could be the first urban commuter gondola in the US.
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    The 8-mile ropeway system would run from north to south Austin along 19 stations, flying travelers across downtown in 44 minutes flat. Its construction would cost between $300 and $600 million.
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    But even if it’s given the thumbs up, Austin’s system would not be the first commuter gondola in the world. Examples have already popped up in South America and Europe.
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    Now, if only Americans can get over their stodgy ideas about public transit. And fear of flying.
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