It’s not the taxes raised, but the costs aka the spending. I have a friend who plans RRs heavy, light, commuter, interstate, etc. Private railroads build for about $2 million/mile. The Chicago Transit Authority, Chicago’s intracity commuter provider, plans to build for $20 million/mile.
Do you see the real problem?
You’ve certainly identified a legitimate problem; one of many.
Here’s where I’m coming from.
“They” propose some new way of obtaining funds for highway (etc.) construction. In response, too many conservatives just bleat “Bastards! They’re scamming us!”.
It’s entirely possible that “they” are scamming us. Even probable, in many cases. But:
1) Roads etc. aren’t free.
2) The people who use them should pay for them.
3) The people who build, maintain, and repair them need be honest, efficient, and prompt in doing their jobs.
(3) above seems to be a huge problem with government owned roads.