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AWR
Veteran Member
 
Join Date: Jun 2005
Location: State of Flux
 
2007-02-13, 05:18

It's screwed because railways/tramways require great public investment, and do not typically maintain a profit, especially if you want to keep fares down and service frequent. Sure there are plenty of benefits, but nobody wants to pay for it.

Here in Geneva, they constructing new trams lines left right and center. Beautiful trains that improve the quality of life for everyone. But they cost. I thankfully use them every day and have no problem with the cost of gas staying at ~USD 5.30/gallon to pay for it. And I am also thankful that the government runs them, and not some profit-obsessed private outfit.

With the exception of a couple of extra lines between points, I don't see the idea catching on in the States. Special interests make sure transportation bills are narrow and sans cujones. (There are some legitimate difficulties, most relevant being the bloody size of typical suburban areas ...)
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