Seven million people woke up in New York this morning, relieved that they did not have to walk to work. A strike by bus and subway employees has been delayed, if not avoided, while negotiations continue. Unfortunatly, there could still be a strike if negotiations sour. Many wonder, now more in theory, what the shutdown of the nation' s largest transportation system would entail.
With millions having to walk, bike, ride and hitchhike to work, the morning commute could be difficult for many New Yorkers. Commuters, tourists and shoppers alike would see if stress builds up when transportation breaks down. But the verdict is still out if the added pressure of an extended commute will put scowls on people faces.
"In terms of total stress quotient I don't know if it would be higher or lower'" says Paul Lehrer, Ph.D. an expert in stress based in Long Island. Lehrer spoke of one person he heard on the radio who had been through the last transit strike. "It was great for her, she got to walk, she got to feel the city around her and she felt less stressed. She was able to take things slower, move at a slower pace."
