Maximize transit, minimize traffic

The Oregonian ^ | 05/06/03 | editorial

[Lefty-NiceGuy]

Houston's such a sprawled out mess. They're completely screwed. It would cost a fortune to build a decent public transport system that got to every chunk of it, and the more the thing grows out devouring the country side the more dummies there will be tring to drive through it.

They just need to bulldoze everything outside of 610 or at least the Sam Houston Toll Way. Well no, but some zoning might be in order. Otherwise there will always just be one more redneck insisting on living right on the edge, demanding we give him power, water, and a nice road so he can drive all the way to the center.

[jagrmeister]

You are slow. Let me spell this out for you. Public transportation requires OTHERS to pay for the method of transport and gasoline (not to mention those who operate the transportaion, the bureaucracy, etc.). With automobiles, you foot that bill. Road construction costs are a footnote comparatively- in terms of per capita costs. Thus, not only does automobile transport cost taxpayers less than public transportation, the amount of mileage and users dwarfs public transport. Now, I'll give you time to understand a nuanced argument and get your head out of your ass. I've debated to this to my satisfaction.

[gitmo]

Taxpayers subsidize the costs associated with car travel, too, such as roads and highways. And in my experience, building more roads and highways relieves the problem for a short time, only.

And light rail relieves the problem once and for all?

[Risa]

>>And light rail relieves the problem once and for all?<<

Public transportation issues are extremely complex, and controversial, too. I haven't the education or knowledge in that discipline to make the claim that light-rail will relieve U.S. transportation problems. I meant only to report my observations.
regards,
risa

[lugsoul]

It's easy to "argue" when you don't have to stick to facts. Where are your numbers? I'm sure whatever you rely upon is complete, unbiased, and leaves nothing out - for example, comparative land costs. Oh, I'm sure all of your numbers also include costs of policing and traffic management as operating costs of the roadways. I'm sure you have it all under consideration, and that your view is informed only by facts and not by your political bent. And probably also informed by your vast experience with public transportation.