And it ONLY cost $1 billion which is what 75% Cost over run. Funny how the same people who scream bloody murder about Defense spending never have a peep to say about the waste in every day Govt spending
Metropolitan Council cut bus service on 70 percent of its routes. Because of this decision, 28 routes were eliminated and another 78 saw reduced service. In addition to this, bus fares were raised by 25 cents.
Metro Transit officials justified this recommendation because of an expected $60 million shortfall in revenues over the next two years. However, that $715 million+ was recently spent on the Hiawatha light rail line. That is over 12 times as much as the expected revenue shortfall. Furthermore, there is a proposal to extended light rail to University Avenue, which would cost more than $800 million.
Instead of spending several hundred million dollars on light rail, it would be better to spend $60 million to maintain the bus system. This would benefit more riders at a lower cost to taxpayers.
Stop That Train!(old but good article)
http://citypages.com/databank/21/1000/article8398.asp