He realizes that the Romans had roads, yeah? Also, all the cities that are held up as great have great transportation built in and the cities are closer together. Why does he go to the extreme? There are so many good starts without tearing out streets.

I think of the savings on transport and the food deserts this strategy could ameliorate… my only real concern is the impact farming on top of structures will have in wear/tear water damage etc., but that’s a very minor concern.