Amtrak: Railroading the Taxpayers

[buzz456]

The minute we stop subsidizing Metra in Chicago it will stop. Several minutes after we stop subsidizing the interstate system it will fall apart. Several minutes after we stop subsidizing the airports ticket prices will skyrocket. I am not advocating I am asking. Is that what we want?

[PapaXpress]

I don't think you really want my opinion about air lines.

[GSkid]

The minute we stop subsidizing Metra in Chicago it will stop. Several minutes after we stop subsidizing the interstate system it will fall apart. Several minutes after we stop subsidizing the airports ticket prices will skyrocket. I am not advocating I am asking. Is that what we want?

No. We give them a reasonable time frame to come up with a plan and start implementing it. Then we start weening them off the subsidies over a set amount of years. This allows them the room to get on their feet, while at the same time softening the blow so it doesn't come as an immediate shock.

[buzz456]

You are just looking for someone to argue with. Outa this conversation.

[hertsbob]

http://www.independent.co.uk/travel/news-and-advice/rail-fare-increases-commuters-take-a-hit-as-ticket-prices-rise-three-times-faster-than-wages-9033028.html

http://www.independent.co.uk/voices/comment/you-cant-fault-rail-fare-increases-which-commuter-doesnt-want-this-luxury-form-of-travel-9034614.html?origin=internalSearch

[GSkid]

Thanks for sharing hertsbob!

That's awesome! Never that I'd see that in the UK. By how much percent did they raise fares over last year? I'm guessing there's subsidies still involved... correct? It doesn't really explain.

[hertsbob]

Well I'm not an expert on the subject by any means, but basically yes.

The rail fare structure can be almost impossible to understand too. If I wanted to go into London and back again tonight (less than 20 miles each way) it would cost me the equivalent of about $37...