Transportation was very limited at first, and it was very expensive to transport things from one place to another. “Transportation through the mountains was so difficult and costly in the early years..”, [Chudacoff, 36] which was the reason why most preferred traveling by water. The evolution of transportation systems really evolved New York commerce in a positive way. Trading became faster, and probably became the start of the urbanization of the city. Transportation played a key role in helping the city evolve commercially.
As a result of the evolution of transportation, for example, better roads, bridges and toll roads, farmers were able to benefit from them because of the “enhancement of long distance trade.” [Chudacoff, 35]. Another group that benefited from the changes were the Westerners. Their usual preference of transportation by sea was improved with the invention of the steamboat. The revolution of transportation brought upon man positive effects, both for the city and the people who were involved.
I agree with those you have stated that benefited from the development of transportation. Not only did Westerners and farmers have benefits, but practically anyone that wanted to trade, travel or start businesses did as well. Entrepreneurs quickly bought real estate in cities such as Chicago to make more money. Those who traveled found it much easier to navigate through roads, canals and the railroad. Finally, trade routes were established, allowing for faster trade and communication.