How Many Gas Stations Are There in the Concrete Jungle?
New York City: the land of dreams, endless possibilities, and apparently, a surprising number of gas stations. Who knew? I mean, sure, we’ve got yellow cabs, Ubers, and the subway system that could rival the circulatory system of a giant squid, but gas stations? That's a whole different story.
The Great Gas Station Ghost Hunt
You'd think in a city where people walk faster than they run, and the closest thing to a green light is a traffic cop’s glare, gas stations would be as common as a pigeon with a chip on its shoulder. But nope. Turns out, while there might be more coffee shops per capita than any other city on Earth, the gas station scene is a little less crowded.
Apparently, there are around 7,279 gas stations scattered across the five boroughs. That’s a lot of places to fill up your tank, right? Wrong. Remember, we’re talking about New York City here. That number is spread out over an area that's basically a postage stamp compared to the rest of the country. So, while there might be plenty of gas stations, finding a convenient one can sometimes feel like searching for a needle in a very, very big haystack.
Manhattan: The Gas Station Desert
If you think finding a parking spot in Manhattan is tough, try finding a gas station. It's like looking for a quiet place in Times Square. Most of the gas stations in the city are actually located in the outer boroughs, with Manhattan being a bit of a gas station desert. So, if you're planning a road trip starting in the Big Apple, you might want to fill up before you hit the bridge.
The Future of Fuel in the City That Never Sleeps
With the rise of electric vehicles, the future of gas stations in New York City is a bit uncertain. Will they become relics of the past, like payphones and cassette tapes? Or will they adapt and evolve into charging stations? Only time will tell. But one thing's for sure, the city that never sleeps will always find a way to keep moving, no matter what's powering the vehicles.
How To... Gas Station Edition
How to find a gas station in Manhattan: Good luck! Your best bet is to use a gas station app or rely on the kindness of strangers.
How to avoid traffic around gas stations: Leave early, leave late, or take public transportation.
How to save money on gas in NYC: Walk, bike, or use public transportation. Or win the lottery.
How to survive a gas station run in NYC: Wear layers, bring earplugs, and be prepared to wait.
How to appreciate the irony of a gas station in NYC: Just relax and enjoy the absurdity of it all.